Minister Apologies For Health Department's Tragic Failure

Failings in mental health care that resulted in the tragic death of a mother and child have led to an apology at the highest level.

The NI Assembly Health Minister has apologised to the families of Madeleine and Lauren O'Neill for the failings that led to their tragic deaths, as identified in the Independent Inquiry Report - published yesterday.

The document related how a mother who killed her daughter and then committed suicide had told health professionals about her intentions.

Madeline O'Neill took her own life after killing her daughter, Lauren, at their home in Carryduff in July 2005.

The report criticised the care Mrs O'Neill received from the Eastern and Western Health Boards and said they had failed to follow basic procedures.

Mrs O'Neill left Gransha Hospital in Londonderry two weeks before her death.

Responding to the publication of the Independent Inquiry Report, the Minister, Michael McGimpsey said: "I offer my sincere apologies to the family of Madeleine and Lauren and I promise to do everything possible to examine the issues and put things right, including setting up a Public Inquiry if that is necessary.

"The Coroner's Inquiry is planned for September and we must await the outcome of that before considering if any further actions are required.

"I am saddened and dismayed that such a tragedy could have happened despite several apparent opportunities to avoid it.

"While the organisations have changed since the events of 2005, the system failed Madeleine and Lauren and it is our first obligation to accept responsibility.

"I am committed to ensuring that the lessons from this Independent Inquiry will be taken forward to minimise the risk of such events happening again.

"Actions across services have already begun and all the Boards and Trusts are aware of the urgent need to continue to address the issues arising out of this Independent Inquiry.

“I am asking my Department and all the relevant health and social care organisations to redouble their vigilance in applying principles and procedures for dealing with the very difficult risks that arise in this kind of case.

"It is important that all health and social care professionals are fully trained in and have awareness of child protection policy and procedures. This training should also include private counsellors and GPs," he said.

The Minister outlined the importance of a 'joined-up' health service: "Multi-disciplinary working and information sharing should be improved across mental health and child-care services.

"Mental health services should consult with and where appropriate offer support to families and carers of people with a mental disorder."

Concluding the Minister said: "I remain very concerned about the findings of the Independent Inquiry. Therefore I will leave no stone unturned in order to be clear as to what happened in this case and to make sure it never happens again."

See: Doctors Knew Of Infanticide Plan

(BMcC)