PSNI and Trust are set for Gransha exit

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey told Assembly Members last week the brothers were bound by a court-imposed Supervision and Treatment Order (STO) issued to the Western Health and Care Trust (WHSCT).

But he also said the added protection of a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) - the responsibility of the PSNI - would ensure the protection of children and the public.

Mr McGimpsey was asked what plans WHSCT had in place should the McDermott brothers discharge themselves from Lakeview Hospital in the near future and attempt to return to Donagh, County Fermanagh.

He was also quizzed over whether his Department has attempted to have the STO amended to address this possible scenario.

He explained: “A STO and a SOPO are in place. They work together to ensure the safety of children and the community and also to ensure that the McDermott brothers receive appropriate treatment.

“The SOPO is the responsibility of the police and ensures the safety of children and the public. The supervision and treatment order was issued to the WHSCT by the court.

“The responsibility of the supervising order in accordance with that order is to approve or disapprove residency.

“Should the brothers decide to leave Lakeview and return to Donagh, or go elsewhere, the supervising officer would discuss any change of circumstances with other relevant agencies and approve or disapprove of whatever address they present, according to the evidence before the supervising officer at the time.”

He said the Western Trust had not tried to amend the STO as the McDermott brothers had not breached its terms.

“On legal advice, the trust has not applied for any variation to the supervision and treatment order, as the brothers are compliant with the terms of that order.

“Should that change, the trust will take appropriate action, in conjunction with the police and the responsibilities in relation to the sexual offences prevention order.

“I have asked the Health and Social Care Board to undertake a case review. I expect that that review will present its interim report to me within a month and a full report shortly thereafter,” he explained.