Sinnott seeks probe into autistic children case
Ms Sinnott - whose own son, Jamie, is autistic - also expressed concern about a possible “pattern of intimidation” by officials of the Health Service Executive (HSE).
The independent MEP said she had become aware of five other families who claimed they had been threatened with the loss of their child when they looked for care services.
It arose after the HSE secured a court order to take the five children of Co Meath couple, Padraig and Mary O’Hara, into care.
However, the children, four of whom are autistic, were reunited with their parents on Friday night after a district court judge reversed the original order.
“In the past week, I’ve learnt of several cases of parents who have felt intimidated by health board officials. They fear their children will be taken off them if they create an impression that they can’t manage.
“These parents feel that they cannot complain without having to worry, and after the O’Hara case they are more frightened than ever before,” said Ms Sinnott.
She also called on Health Minister Mary Harney to order an inquiry into the matter.
“This case has highlighted how civil servants have enormous powers over people’s lives but little real accountability,” said Ms Sinnott.
Yesterday, the Cork-based MEP said she would also petition EU Justice Commissioner Franco Frattini, to investigate the conduct of the officials responsible for removing the O’Hara children from their parents. She described the action of the health authorities as “a tragic fiasco”.
“The O’Hara’s eight-day ordeal in health board care may take years to heal,” said Ms Sinnott.
She also expressed concern that the family was being punished for their decision to speak out publicly about the lack of services from healthcare authorities.
It is understood the O’Haras have not decided whether they will take any legal action following the controversial action of the HSE as their main focus has been on resettling their children back to normal family life at home in Kells.
A HSE spokesperson last night declined to say if the reversal of the original care order would lead to an internal review about the management of the case.
