The RTÉ Prime Time programme on abuse of the elderly had exposed "rotteness at the heart of Irish society'', Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny told the Dáil this afternoon.
He said although it might well have been relevant to a minority of carers, it represented a sickening episode of inhumanity shown to old people.
"Ireland was exposed last night, on a Prime Time investigates programme, to a series of incidents of indignity, inhumanity and unchristian and uncaring activities,'' he added.
Taoiseach Brian Cowen apologised to the familes of those affected and confirmed there would be a full HSE inquiry into the matter. He also confirmed that new regulations covering care for the elderly would be introduced early next year.
The RTÉ programme, he said, had shown the lack of regulation in the sector. "It is important to point out that any individual case, where there is less than professional and caring services provided, is one which no one would stand over in a position of responsibility,'' he added.
The Health Service Executive has begun a review of homecare services supplied to 65,000 older people following a series of complaints and and the Prime Time programme.
The executive said it was “taking seriously” allegations that a number of private providers were failing to meet basic standards in the provision of care.
The RTÉ investigation showed several instances where it appeared that vulnerable elderly people had received inadequate care, and, in at least one case, had been mistreated by a member of staff.