Confusion concerning the law frequently occurs but seldom has such bewilderment arisen as in the case of double killer John Gallagher who has handed himself in after absconding from the Central Mental Hospital and fleeing to England 12 years ago.

Double-killer John Gallagher would not have handed himself in unless he knew he would walk free, his victims' family has said.

IT’S hard to imagine the mixed feelings of relief and apprehension of the person released last week from the Central Mental Hospital on “conditional” discharge whereby patients can be recalled if they breach strict rules.

A report by the Mental Health Review Board is raising concerns that legislation to enforce conditions of discharge for patients has not been enacted.

AN investigation is to be launched into the death of a man at the Central Mental Hospital in Dublin over the weekend.

PEOPLE are being detained at the Central Mental Hospital despite being deemed fit for discharge because there is no way to enforce conditions for their release.

An action brought by a man detained at the Central Mental Hospital (CMH) who claims that the refusal to release him is a breach of his rights under the European Convention is due to be heard by the High Court in July.

NEW powers enabling gardaí to detain immigrants in the Central Mental Hospital without psychiatric examination were heavily criticised yesterday.