Hospital employee cleared of fraud

A city hospital employee, who was the subject of a HSE investigation for alleged fraud, will be reinstated into his former position after he was cleared of any wrongdoing.

It is understood that the HSE investigation did not follow proper procedures from the outset and it has now resulted in the supervisor being invited to return to his full time employment today (Monday).

The man had been suspended from his duties more than two years ago on full pay as investigations were carried out into allegations that he had building work done at his city home, paid for by the Health Service Executive.

The man at the centre of the probe was called to give evidence, as were two contractors employed by the HSE to carry out works at University Hospital Galway (UHG).

The investigation centred on allegations that the man, a supervisor at UHG, got two contractors, hired to carry out works at the hospital, to do renovation work at his own home. It is believed the alleged cost to the taxpayer may run into five figures.

It is known that the man at the centre of the allegations completely refuted the claims made against him by the HSE. He has now been invited to return to his former duties as a supervisor.

The investigation into the allegations were completed some time ago. It was alleged that the hospital supervisor asked contractors to do some specific work on his own private house and that those hours were billed to the hospital.

It was alleged that the HSE paid for these works on the understanding that they were carried out at University Hospital Galway.

A source within the HSE said that the investigation into the allegations was “botched” by those involved in that they did not adhere to proper procedures in the process.

During the investigation, the HSE West issued a statement confirming that there was an investigation taking place.

“West/North West Hospitals Group takes all allegations or discoveries of misconduct by any staff member very seriously.

“We can confirm that an investigation by the group into matters involving a manager has been completed and a disciplinary hearing has been held. This process is ongoing.

“In the interests of fairness and to ensure due process, the nature of any investigation is not discussed with third parties not associated with the alleged incident. When the results are known, appropriate action is taken, including disciplinary action and, where appropriate”, the HSE stated.

But it has now been established that the individual does not have a case to answer and has been invited back to work by the HSE.