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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."
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