Pat McLoughlin, aged 56, of Lalibela, Mayfield, Claremorris, Co Mayo, was one of five Aras Attracta staff who were convicted of assaulting residents with intellectual disabilities in their care at Ballina Court yesterday, but McLoughlin was the only one to be handed down a prison sentence.

Covert CCTV footage showed the manager sitting on Ms A, a resident with severe intellectual disabilities.

Handing down the sentence, Judge Mary Devins said there was a “hint of cruelty”, “an invasion of the lady’s bodily integrity”, and an “abuse of power” by the defendant.

She sentenced him to four months in prison and directed he pay €1,000 to Ms A’s personal fund to be used on the things she enjoys. She ordered the money be used on things to “humanise” Ms A again .

Counsel for McLoughlin lodged an appeal against his client’s sentence.

Christina Delaney, aged 35, of Seefin, Lissatava, Hollymount, Co Mayo, a health care assistant, was also seen sitting on Ms A. She was ordered to pay €600 to Ms A’s personal fund. Her case was adjourned to see if she is suitable for community service.

Nurse Joan Walsh, aged 42, of Carrowilkeen, Curry, Co Sligo, slapped Ms B, a non-verbal patient looking for her attention.

Judge Devins said her actions were on the “minor side of minor”, and all of the witnesses spoke highly of her. She directed her to pay €600 to Ms B’s personal fund and she will be assessed for community service.

Kathleen King, aged 56, of Knockshanvally, Straide, Foxford, Co Mayo, who was found guilty of slapping Ms C, a 66-year-old resident, was directed to pay €600 to the resident’s personal fund.

If found suitable for community service, all three will serve 120 hours in lieu of three months’ imprisonment.

Joan Gill, aged 63, of 35 Dublin Rd, Swinford, Co Mayo, was found guilty of three counts of assault.

The judge directed her to pay €1,000 to Ms A, and €500 to Ms B. If found suitable for community service, she will serve 240 hours in lieu of four months prison.

The four defendants deferred for community assessment reports will come before the courts on March 11 .