Court to rule on CMH detention

A dispute over the appropriate procedure for the detention in the Central Mental Hospital of a mentally ill man, described as dangerous and a “grave” risk to himself and others, has come before the High Court.

The HSE wants the man, due for release after serving sentences for serious criminal offences, to be made a ward of court and detained, under the court’s wardship jurisdiction, in the CMH.

No other centre is considered capable of securing his safety and welfare and the issue arises because his situation is not catered for under the 2001 Mental Health Act, the court heard.