A HSE-run long-stay healthcare facility in Dublin with more than 80 beds is to be closed down.
Senior HSE sources have confirmed that St Brigid's Home, Crooksling, Brittas is to shut over the next three to six months.
It is understood that the facility is to be closed as the HSE fears that it would not meet standards set by the Health Information and Quality Authority.
Details of the closure were revealed earlier today by the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO).
It said that it became aware of the closure plan late last night but that so far there had been no discussions on the issue with unions and staff.
The organisation said the closure would be devastating to a significant number of patients and their families.
"The closure will also have a major impact on Tallaght Hospital which relies on St Brigid's to take many of its patients who require long term care. There are currently over 60 patients in Tallaght who are medically discharged, but will now have no place to go."
Industrial relations officer Derek Reilly said he was seeking an urgent meeting with the HSE so that both patients and staff at St Brigid's can learn what the plans are for the home. "St Brigid's should be maintained and resources provided to ensure it has a viable future,” he said.
It is understood that the HSE may move patients from St Brigid's to a new facility in Inchicore in Dublin.