Seven patients granted conditional release from CMH

Seven patients were granted conditional release from the Central Mental Hospital last year, the first such discharges under a new legal system.

Of those released, one had been detained in the forensic psychiatric hospital for more than 30 years, one for 22 years and another for 21 years. Of the remainder, two had been detained for 13 years and another two for 11 years.

The conditional releases were granted by the Mental Health Review Board, which will make the decision as to whether or not John Gallagher will continue to be detained or released, either subject to conditions or unconditionally.