The Farrelly Commission Of Inquiry Has Published It's Final Report On The 'Grace Case'

Tuesday, 15 April 2025 14:14

By Emma O'Connor

The report examines allegations of abuse against a severely disabled woman while in foster care.

The Farrelly Commission of Inquiry has published its final report on the ‘Grace case’.

The report examines allegations of abuse against a severely disabled woman while in foster care

The Farrelly Commission was established in 2017 after serious allegations of abuse against an intellectually disabled woman, known as 'Grace', were raised.

This afternoon’s substantial report finds failings in the State’s responsibility to Grace, including a general absence of oversight and monitoring by the South Eastern Health Board and the HSE during her time with a foster family, named in this report as 'Family X.'

The Commission notes a fundamental failure by the HSE in their duty of care.

However significantly – it did not find evidence of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse by Family X to Grace.

It did establish that there was financial abuse by Mrs X in her duties as a care provider, with the report noting that Grace had no bank account or savings.

It also found neglect in relation to Grace’s dental care and personal hygiene.

Given these findings and advice from the Attorney General, the Commission has decided to not proceed any further with this investigation.

It will be dissolved at the end of May, following a final report of costs.

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