THE multi-millionaire owner of a company which runs a Belfast care home has rejected the findings of a scathing report which found residents suffered horrific neglect and abuse.
Gordon Sanders, who runs the Essex-based Runwood homes, apologised for the "isolated incidents" at Dunmurry Manor home - but branded the outcome of an investigation by the Commissioner for Older People as "flawed" and "inaccurate".
There was an outcry following the publication of the report last month after it concluded elderly dementia residents had been starved and deprived of medication. A small number had also been sexually abused by other residents.
Mr Sanders, who founded Runwood homes 25 years ago and owns more than 50 homes in England and 10 in Northern Ireland, told the BBC the matter was in the hands of his lawyers, who would be "responding" to the "incorrect" report.
"We're finding the outcome flawed in some areas and we'll be challenging those issues," he said.
READ MORE:
- Dunmurry Manor scandal: Devastating report reveals human rights abuses
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- Department of Health apologises for Dunmurry Manor scandal
The Commissioner, Eddie Lynch, made 59 recommendations after finding a "horrific catalogue" of inhuman and degrading treatment.
There was also severe criticism of the RQIA regulator as well as the Department of Health and health trusts.
Richard Pengelly, the permanent secretary at the Department, last week issued a public apology to residents and families affected.
