Prisoner Ombudsman publishes report into the death of a prisoner
Published on October 06 2021
The Prisoner Ombudsman for Northern Ireland, Dr Lesley Carroll, has today published the findings of an investigation into the death of Mr Liam Adams.
Mr Adams who was 63 years old died at a hospice on 25th February 2019.
He became unwell at Maghaberry Prison in December 2018 where he was treated before being transferred to a hospital where he was diagnosed with non-curative cancer in January. He was moved to a hospice in early February where he remained until his death.
The Prisoner Ombudsman's investigation thoroughly explored and analysed all aspects of Mr Adams' death, including any questions raised by his bereaved relatives, as detailed in the report.
The report accepts the findings of the independent clinical reviewer which concluded that Mr Adams had received appropriate care while he was in prison, from he first reported feeling unwell, and there had not been any missed or delayed cancer diagnosis.
Addressing the publication of her report the Prisoner Ombudsman Dr Lesley Carroll said:
"This report is written with Mr Adams' family in mind. It is important that my office provides, as far as possible, explanations and information that gives insight to the bereaved. I am grateful to Mr Adams' family for their engagement with the investigation and offer my condolences to them on their sad loss."
Dr Carroll also extended thanks to the Northern Ireland Prison Service, the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust and the clinical reviewer for their contributions to the investigation.