Teen ‘distressed’ over possible delay in return home

A teenager with a condition on the autism spectrum is “very distressed” that her return to Ireland next month from a psychiatric hospital in England may not proceed due to a delay in finding a suitable placement for her here, the High Court has heard.

Directing a special hearing of the matter later this month, Ms Justice Bronagh O’Hanlon said the 17-year-old “clearly needs a place” and the matter is urgent.

The girl, who has been in the English hospital since November, was considered suitable for discharge months ago, and was told she would be home in August. There is considerable doubt about that, the court heard.