Muckamore Inquiry team reach out to patients and families across Tyrone

People across Tyrone who may have been impacted by the alleged abuse and mistreatment of patients at Muckamore Abbey Hospital in Co Antrim, are being urged to attend a virtual information session on the inquiry set up to examine the scandal.

The information event which is being held on Wednesday at 5pm, is being organised by the Muckamore Abbey Hospital Public Inquiry Team ahead of the hearings which are due to start in May.

An criminal investigation into the care facility has seen a total of 29 people arrested while eight are facing prosecution with almost 80 Muckamore staff suspended by the Belfast trust.

The Information Session, led by the Public Inquiry Chair, Tom Kark QC, will provide those affected by alleged mistreatment at Muckamore, the opportunity to engage with the Inquiry Team and receive further information about the Inquiry process.

“This independent Public Inquiry has been set up to consider the serious and complex issues at Muckamore Abbey Hospital. This Inquiry is about the wellbeing of vulnerable people who have been entrusted into the care of others, often away from their families,” said Mr Kark.

“We want all those who have information, of whatever nature, to come forward ahead of the commencement of hearings and I encourage all those affected to engage with the Inquiry. I recognise that this may be an extremely distressing time for some, and I can assure individuals that all engagement with the Inquiry will be treated with sensitivity.”

The Inquiry Team has asked that all attendees register for the Information Session. This can be done by phoning the Inquiry Team directly on 028 9051 5462 or by emailing info@mahinquiry.org.uk. An invitation link will be sent ahead of the session. All contact will remain confidential, and those attending will be treated with complete sensitivity.

l Prior to the session, those who can, are encouraged to fill out the short contact form available on the Inquiry website at www.mahinquiry.org.uk