Sir, – I refer to the article "Damages for man with autism 'treated despicably' by gardaí" (Mary Carolan, News, February 2nd).
There are many worrying aspects to this case but in particular it raises an important question – just what are the powers of the Garda Síochána under the 2001 Mental Health Act? This question is particularly pertinent given the fact that Ireland is one of only three European Union states not to have ratified the United Nations Charter for Rights of People with Disabilities.
In 2006, in Northern Ireland, the Bamford Review of Mental Health and Learning Disability made a number of far-reaching recommendations, many of which have been implemented, including that people with learning difficulties and mental health problems, if detained within police stations, would be offered necessary support, treatment and care, and where appropriate would be redirected to suitable services.
Those working within the criminal justice system in Northern Ireland would no doubt point to further improvements that could be made there.
But, by and large, any review of both systems is likely to expose the fact that individuals living in Northern Ireland in comparison with those here in the Republic (particularly those who are vulnerable) enjoy greater protections within a more accountable, transparent system.
Clearly, given the details of this case, there is a lot of ground to be made up by those seeking re-election as our legislators in the next few weeks. – Yours, etc,
EMMET MURRAY,
Manorcunningham,
Co Donegal.