Statement from the Executive on the current disorder
The Executive Ministers have once again called for calm following two days of rioting, violence and property destruction, saying ethnic communities make a valuable contribution to the health service and other sections of our communities.
The statement said: ” As Executive Ministers, we collectively and unequivocally condemn the disorder, violence and intimidation we witnessed in our communities last night.
“Events on the streets here caused significant harm to communities, spread fear and risked innocent lives. No community benefits from these actions.
“The incident in north Belfast on Monday was deeply shocking. While we understand the strength of feeling about what happened, it is now subject to legal proceedings, and justice must be allowed to run its course.
“Everyone has the right to protest peacefully. What we witnessed last night went far beyond that. Sadly, there are those intent on wreaking destruction on the very communities they claim they are trying to protect.
The NI Executive has released a joint statement on the current unrest in Belfast and other areas.
“They are weaponising the genuine hurt, concern and anger that people are feeling for their own misguided purposes.
“Racism, intimidation and violence are wrong wherever they occur. There can be no justification for attacking homes, burning family cars, damaging businesses, and damaging our public transport and our roads. It furthers no cause and benefits no one.
“The eyes of the world are watching us this week and the actions we take, as individuals and as a society, will shape how we are viewed and how our communities move forward.
“Our thoughts are with all those who have been directly affected by the violence and disorder of recent days. We also commend the professionalism, bravery and dedication of our police and emergency services in responding to the disorder last night to protect the public and keep people safe.
“Our minority ethnic communities are a valued part of our society, many of whom are vital to our health and public services and our economy.
“As an Executive, we remain united in our commitment to building a safe, prosperous and welcoming Northern Ireland for all.
“We also continue to appeal for calm and urge everyone to reject violence, reject division and allow the rule of law to prevail.”
County Junior Demonstration Hailed As A Huge Success in Donaghadee
The County Down Junior Orange Demonstration in Donaghadee has been hailed a huge success, with hundreds of young Orangemen and Orangewomen, together with their families and supporters, enjoying a tremendous day of fellowship, music and parade.
Among those taking part were members of Clough’s Chosen Few JLOL 124, who attended their first ever County Junior Demonstration since the lodge’s formation.
Alan Lewis, Superintendent of Clough’s Chosen Few JLOL 124, said: “It was a tremendous day from start to finish and a fantastic advertisement for Junior Orangeism.
“One of the most encouraging aspects of the day was the increased numbers of young Orangemen and Orangewomen taking part.
Junior Orange Order young members marchin in Clough.
“Seeing so many children and families involved demonstrates that Junior Orangeism continues to go from strength- to-strength.
“For Clough’s Chosen Few JLOL 124, this was a particularly special occasion as it marked our first attendance at a County Junior Demonstration since the lodge was formed.
“The children had a fantastic day, made lasting memories and thoroughly enjoyed representing their lodge and community.”
“The Clough lodge began the day by parading through the village, accompanied by guests from Loyal Daughters of Mourne Junior Women’s Lodge and the music of Rising Sons of the Valley Flute Band, before travelling to Donaghadee for the County Demonstration accompanied throughout the day by Star of Down Flute Band.
Young Clough Orange Order members marching in Donaghadee.
“The quality of music on parade was outstanding and their contribution helped make the occasion a memorable one for all involved.”
Congratulations were also extended to Daughters of Bryansford JWLOL 54, who were awarded the Best Lodge on Parade trophy.
Alan Lewis added: “The standard on parade was exceptionally high and I would like to congratulate Daughters of Bryansford JWLOL 54 on their well deserved success in winning the Best Lodge on Parade award.”
He concluded by thanking the organisers, volunteers, parents and supporters whose efforts ensured the event was such a success and said: “Events such as this provide young Orangemen and Orangewomen with the opportunity to build friendships, learn about their heritage and create memories that will last a lifetime.
“Judging by the smiles on the children’s faces throughout the day, the County Demonstration was an outstanding success.”
Sinn Féin MLA Sinead Ennis reiterates firm commitment to protecting workers and families from domestic water charges
Sinn Féin has reiterated its firm commitment to protecting workers and families from domestic water charges, as Sinéad Ennis MLA welcomed the Infrastructure Committee’s decision to advance legislation extending the Department’s subsidy to NI Water for a further five years.
The Infrastructure Committee member said the move will help ensure that already hard‑pressed households are not burdened with additional costs and will protect them from domestic water charges until 2032.
South Down MLA Sinead Ennis
Sinéad Ennis said: “Sinn Féin is absolutely clear that we will not impose domestic water charges on workers and families who are already under significant financial pressure.
“This morning, the Infrastructure Committee agreed to take forward legislation that will extend the Department’s subsidy to NI Water for another five years.
“This is a positive step that demonstrates the Minister’s commitment to supporting households through the cost‑of‑living crisis.
Crucially, it will help ensure that families are protected from the introduction of domestic water charges until 2032.
“More than £500 million will be provided to NI Water to support its day‑to‑day operations. This investment will shield households from potential bills of up to £600, similar to the charges faced by people in England, Scotland and Wales.
“Sinn Féin will continue to stand up for workers and families by ensuring they are not hit with additional water charges.”
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Solent Valley: a source of much of the water supply in the North.
Installing a meter involves coming from the street water main to your service pipe leading to your property. A shut off valve may be set at this point. The meter is then connected – it could be a smart meter which can be read automatically. From there the piping goes to your water system at home. In some cases the meter could be set inside the property itself.
New Cross-Border UNESCO Network Will Connect Heritage Sites Throughout Ireland
Newry Mourne and Down District Council and the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark is at the centre of an innovative new all-island partnership connecting UNESCO-designated sites across Ireland for the first time.
The Council has secured 100% funding through the PEACEPLUS Change Makers Programme (Investment Area 6.2) for the “UNESCO Together” Project which will be delivered over the next two years.
The initiative will establish a cross-border network linking UNESCO Global Geoparks, World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves and Creative Cities across Northern Ireland and Ireland.
The project positions Newry Mourne and Down District Council and Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark as a leading partner in UNESCO collaboration, with a strong focus on peacebuilding, reconciliation, youth engagement and shared natural and cultural heritage.
It also directly supports wider objectives around community cohesion and people-to-people connection.
Newry Mourne and Down District Council and the Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark, is at the centre of an innovative new all-island partnership connecting UNESCO-designated sites across Ireland for the first time.
At its core, UNESCO Together will develop an all-island strategic roadmap for long-term cooperation between UNESCO sites.
This includes exploring future initiatives such as a UNESCO Tourism Trail, highlighting World Heritage Sites and Global Geoparks as drivers of sustainable tourism, education, cultural identity and community development.
Supported by the UK National Commission to UNESCO and National Commission of Ireland to UNESCO, the project will bring together designated sites across the island to strengthen collaboration through shared landscapes, heritage and identity.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is the lead partner, responsible for overall coordination, governance, financial management and communications, with the project delivered in partnership with Cavan County Council and Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark.
The emerging network will involve all 14 UNESCO sites on the island of Ireland as well as the six Tentative UNESCO sites, creating new cross-border links through workshops, community exchanges, creative residencies, environmental action activities and cultural storytelling programmes.
Over the course of the project, UNESCO Together will deliver more than 650 participations in cross-border activities, including in-person workshops, community events at UNESCO sites and online exchanges.
Creative programmes will also celebrate UNESCO-recognised intangible cultural heritage, including Irish harping, uilleann piping, hurling, falconry and dry stone walling.
Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Glyn Hanna said: “UNESCO Together is an important and practical example of how we can work in partnership to deliver real benefits for our communities.
Cllr Glyn Hanna, Chairman of Newry Mourne and Down District Council, says this initiative is a positive example of cooperation and partnerships for communities benefiting from eco-tourism.
“This project brings together some of our most significant UNESCO sites and organisations to strengthen cooperation, share expertise and support sustainable tourism, education and cultural development in a way that delivers value for people locally.”
Cllr Hanna added: “Newry Mourne and Down District Council is pleased to be leading this work with partners in Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark and we look forward to seeing communities, schools and organisations take part in the wide range of activities planned over the next two years.
“At its heart, this is about creating opportunities for people to connect, learn and benefit from our shared natural and cultural heritage in a practical and meaningful way.”
Ambassador David Brück, Permanent Representative of Ireland to the OECD and UNESCO added, “At a time when peaceful cooperation is more important than ever.
“Initiatives such as UNESCO Together highlight the power of cultural and natural heritage to bring people together, strengthen community connections, and create opportunities for collaboration, dialogue, and understanding.”
Matt Rabagliati, Head of Policy, Research and Communications, at the UK National Commission for UNESCO, said: “Congratulations to UNESCO sites across the island of Ireland on this extraordinary initiative.
“UNESCO designations are not only places of outstanding natural and cultural heritage; they are also spaces for collaboration, learning and shared action.
“UNESCO Together shows how sites can work together across the island to build relationships, share approaches and support wider objectives around sustainability, peacebuilding and community cohesion.
“We are delighted to support this ambitious project through our Local to Global programme, and to work alongside the Irish National Commission for UNESCO to strengthen collaboration across the UNESCO network.”
The Reavey family deserve truth and justice say Newry and Armagh MP Daire Hughes
Sinn Féin MP Dáire Hughes, has stated that the Reavey family deserves truth and justice as legal proceedings against the British Ministry of Defence and the PSNI began in Belfast today.
Newry and Armagh Sinn Féin MP Dáire Hughes backs the Reavey family in their quest for truth and justice.
Speaking after attending the first day of the hearing with party colleague Aoife Finnegan MLA, the Newry and Armagh MP said: “A little over 50 years ago John Martin, Brian and Anthony Reavey were brutally murdered in their home in Whitecross by the Glenanne Gang, in a sectarian attack which targeted innocent men.
“The Glenanne Gang were notorious for sectarian murder, having been responsible for up to 120 killings in Armagh, Tyrone and beyond.
“Numerous reports and legal proceedings have also shown sickening levels of collusion between this murder gang and British forces, including the UDR and RUC.
“Eugene and the whole Reavey clan have demonstrated immense dedication and commitment in pursuing truth and justice for over half a century.
“They, like every family affected by the conflict, are entitled to truth, justice and acknowledgment. It is a basic principle of the rule of law.”
McGrath says SWAH staff are frightened to speak out
SDLP Opposition Health Spokesperson Colin McGrath MLA has said the latest RQIA report into Emergency General Surgery pathways linked to the South West Acute Hospital (SWAH) exposes a health service “held together by exhausted staff who no longer feel listened to”.
Mr McGrath said the Department of Health would attempt to present the report as proof the current arrangements are working but warned that frontline staff experiences tell a very different story. Morale and energy levels are at a low.
South Down MLA Colin McGrath, SDLP Health Opposition spokesperson, is concerned at a recent report on the SWAH which he says indicates that exhausted staff are afraid to voice their concerns.
He said he was aware of healthcare staff who are deeply worried about speaking publicly.
South Down MLA Colin McGrath said: “What this report actually reveals is a system under enormous strain, with repeated concerns around delayed transfers, ambulance pressures, poor morale and fractured working relationships.
“One of the most concerning aspects is the clear gap between the confidence being expressed by senior management and the reality being described by many frontline workers.
“I have heard about staff who feel frightened to raise concerns openly because they fear repercussions. That should alarm everyone.
“These staff members are professionals who have carried this service through years of uncertainty and pressure, before Covid and through it, yet many feel unsupported, ignored and unable to speak freely.
“People will rightly ask how a ‘temporary’ arrangement introduced almost three years ago has been allowed to drift indefinitely while communities are repeatedly reassured everything is improving.
“Yes, the report identifies some improvements, but it also identifies ongoing failings and serious concerns. That is a long way from a settled or sustainable position.
“The department now needs to stop managing decline at SWAH and start listening to the staff and communities who have been carrying the consequences of these decisions every single day.”
And it begs the question: how many other trust hospitals have staff in a similar position who are afraid to speak up for fear of being compromised ?
Fleadh Cheoil an Dúin 2026 will be hosted in Downpatrick for the first time ever!
Each year, hundreds of competitors — from young beginners to seasoned performers — take part in competitions across traditional music, singing, storytelling, comhrá gaeilge, and dancing.
Fleadh Cheoil an Dúin is the first qualifying stage for competitors from County Down on the pathway to the Ulster and All-Ireland Fleadhanna.
Alongside the competitions, the host town comes alive with sessions, céilís, workshops, family activities, and a fantastic festival atmosphere filled with music and culture.
Chairman of both County Down Comhaltas Board and Lecale CCÉ, Mark Higgins, explained: “This year’s Fleadh Cheoil an Dúin is special for many reasons.
“It marks a significant moment in local history as the County Fleadh has never before been held in Downpatrick.
“And not only that – Branches from our County will also host Fleadh Cheoil Uladh and Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in the same year – a remarkable achievement!
“Yes, Warrenpoint CCÉ will once again host Fleadh Cheoil Uladh, and Ards CCÉ is the host branch for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann coming to Belfast for the first time ever!
“All this is also happening on the same year that Comhaltas celebrates its 75th Anniversary.
“I am therefore delighted that Lecale CCÉ, the Comhaltas Branch I set up four years ago, and Downpatrick Town are part of an historic year for Comhaltas, and Irish Traditional Music flourishing in County Down.
“As part of hosting the Fleadh Cheoil an Dúin we have a fantastic range of FREE fringe events from Monday 15th – Friday 19th June that will showcase the talent associated with Comhaltas traditions, leading up to the main competition days Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st June that will be held in the SERC Campus, Downpatrick.”
The County Town of Down, Downpatrick, is in for some foot-tapping events this coming June. Mark Higgins, pictured with members of the Lecale CCÉ launches the Down Fleadh to take place in Downpatrick with the main competitions taking place at the SERC campus.
Mark Higgins added: The fringe events will have everything from Piping displays, Irish Dancing, Pop-Up Gaeltachts, Heritage Showcasing, Sean-Nós Dancing – and of course Irish Traditional Music.
“All fringe events are FREE and open to everyone to attend and I would encourage everyone to follow Lecale CCÉ on social media where full information is available.
“The Fleadh is expected to attract around 2,000 visitors to Downpatrick, providing a welcome boost to the local economy.
“With the main venue located at the SERC Campus beside the bus station, visitors will be right at the heart of the town – and we encourage all visitors to explore the town and enjoy local cafés and restaurants, and support local businesses and the Artisan Market.”
Places to visit in Downpatrick are the St Patrick Centre, Down Arts Centre, Down. County Museum, and the Downpatrick and County Down Railway.
For full programme information, go to Facebook: Lecale CCÉ.
Get Involved with Lecale CCÉ
Lecale CCÉ welcomes people of all ages, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to develop your skills.
• Learn traditional instruments
• Meet new friends in a fun and supportive environment
• Take part in sessions, performances, and competitions
• Build confidence and be part of a thriving cultural community
Young people are especially encouraged to get involved — no previous experience is necessary, just an interest in music and culture!
For anyone interested in learning Irish traditional music or improving their skills, please contact:
Reaction to the rioters from a range of bodies across NI
Retail NI Comments on Public Disorder
Commenting on the on-going public disorder across Northern Ireland, Retail NI Chief Executive Glyn Roberts said: “Last night’s attacks on the homes and businesses of members of our migrant communities are utterly reprehensible and have no place in the Northern Ireland of 2026.
Glyn Roberts, Chief Executive of Retail NI.
“We should not forget the significant contribution that migrant communities make to our public services and to the retail sector, both as employers and employees within Northern Ireland’s largest private-sector industry.
“This ongoing, racially motivated disorder is causing significant damage to Northern Ireland’s economy and its international reputation as a place to live, work and invest.
“Retail NI continues to engage with the PSNI as the situation develops. Business owners should make their own assessment regarding opening hours, while keeping in mind the safety of staff and customers, as well as any disruption to public transport services.”
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Givan says every effort should be made to minimise disruption to teaching and learning
Education Minister Paul Givan has strongly condemned the incidents of violence and the potential for further disruption.
Paul Givan said: “The attack in North Belfast on Monday night was wrong. However, the violence that has followed is deeply concerning and must be condemned. Violence has no place in our society and is wholly unacceptable.
“I engaged with the Police Service of Northern Ireland this morning to ensure we have the appropriate measures in place to support our schools, including pupils and staff.
NI Education Minister Paul Givan.
“The advice remains that education provision should continue. Every effort should be made to minimise disruption to teaching and learning.
“Timetabled public examinations will go ahead as planned this afternoon, and schools should make every effort to remain open for pupils sitting exams.
“While there are reports circulating on social media regarding potential further protests, a blanket decision to close all schools across Northern Ireland would be neither practical nor proportionate.”
Commenting on the impact on children and young people, the Minister concluded: “I am also conscious of the impact on children and young people, particularly those from a minority ethnic background.
“Our school communities provide welcoming and supportive settings where all children can learn, play and grow up together.
“The Department will actively work with a range of partners to provide appropriate assistance to any schools or pupils impacted by recent events as their safety and wellbeing are my Department’s highest priority.”
School leaders are advised to continue monitoring developments in their local areas and to take any actions deemed necessary and proportionate, based on local circumstances. The Department recognises that, in some cases, individual schools may need to make decisions in response to specific local risks.
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Statement from Jon Burrows MLA, Leader of the Ulster Unionist Party
“This morning I spoke personally with the father of Stephen Ogilvy, who was the victim of a horrendous attack in North Belfast on Monday night.
“I want to thank Mr Ogilvy for taking the time to speak with me at such a distressing time for his family.
“His son remains in ICU following the devastating injuries he sustained, but is stable. The injuries inflicted upon him are truly shocking and our thoughts and prayers are with him and his entire family.
Ulster Unionist Party MLA Jon Burrows has met with the father of the knife attack victim who has called for people not to post false information on social media.
“The victim’s father has also asked me to pass on a direct appeal to those spreading disinformation online: please stop. This has shockingly included false posts on social media at various times that his son has died.
“This is causing immense additional distress to a family already going through an unimaginable ordeal.
“I echo that appeal wholeheartedly and urge everyone to act with decency and respect for this family.
“I offered my full solidarity and support to the whole family today.
“I will be meeting with the Secretary of State tomorrow, where I will be raising issues directly related to this case.
“It is important that those in political leadership engage with issues like immigration, the security of our borders and the protection of all our citizens, whilst also standing unequivocally on the side of law and order.
“I also appeal again for parents to ensure their children are not out on the streets and involved in disorder.
“Tomorrow I will be asking the Secretary of State to meet the family of Stephen Ogilvy in the coming days.”
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Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins condemns violent attacks on public infrastructure
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has condemned violent attacks on public infrastructure tonight.
She said: “The attack in North Belfast last night was heinous and wrong.
Sinn Féin’s Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins pictured with Cathy Mason MLA and Chris Hazzard MP outside Parliament Buildings.
“However, what we have seen this evening is to be utterly condemned. Attacking homes, burning family cars, attacking businesses, and damaging our public transport and our roads is totally unacceptable and it must be called out by all political leaders.
“Racism, intimidation and violence are wrong wherever they occur, and it is clear that this attack is being used to spread fear, hatred and division.
“Mindlessly damaging our public transport and our infrastructure achieves nothing, other than to remove vital services and resources from communities who rely on them.
“My thoughts are with the driver and passenger in the Glider that was hijacked and set alight. Thankfully, I’m told both are okay, but it must have been a very frightening experience for them.
“I commend Translink staff who were out working to deliver vital public transport links to local communities this evening before despicable action caused services to be suspended.”
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Translink Comments On Services
A Translink spokesperson said: “Due to expected protests, all Translink bus and rail services will be suspended this eveining (Wednesday 10 June).
“There will be no bus departures after 5pm and no train services will depart after 6pm.
“There is currently a temporary suspension of some bus services until 1.30pm after which time services will resume.
“We are working closely with a range of stakeholders, including the PSNI, our Trade Unions, and other key partners to make appropriate arrangements to keep our passengers, staff and the wider public safe.
Grand Central Station in Belfast. (Photo courtesy of Translink.)
“Passengers are advised that services may be subject to alteration or cancellation. Where possible, passengers should travel earlier in the day and allow extra time for their journeys.
“Suspending services is always a last resort, but the safety of our customers and staff remains our top priority. We want to give people as much advance notice as possible so they can plan accordingly.
“We thank our staff and customers for their continued support at this time.
“We intend to be in a position to resume normal services tomorrow morning, and passengers are encouraged to check the latest travel updates via Translink social channels and the Journey Planner app.”
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JOINT STATEMENT FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVES OF NORTHERN IRELAND’S HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE TRUSTS
The CEOs of the health trusts in NI have made a joint statement reacting to the current rioting and disription in Nortern Ireland.
They said: “We are deeply concerned and appalled at the violence which we are witnessing in our communities.
“It is completely unacceptable that our international staff, who provide an invaluable service, should be intimidated or feel too frightened to come to work.
The NI health service is well supported by staff from different countries around the world.
“The current unrest is having a profound impact on all of our services, which are already under enormous strain.
“All the Trusts are trying to operate as normally as possible but the disruption is making this increasingly difficult.
“As Chief Executives, we value every single member of our staff, who are trying to care for vulnerable people, both in our hospitals and in the community every day.
“The safety of our patients, service users and our staff is paramount.
“It is imperative that everyone who works across our Health and Social Care Service, including Care Homes, Community Pharmacies, Home Care and Primary Care, are able to provide essential care to everyone that needs it, without fear or intimidation.
“We would like to sincerely thank all our staff for their continued dedication, in really difficult circumstances.”
Drugs discovered in the graveyard at St Patrick’s Church in Bryansford
Sinn Féin Councillors Willie Clarke and Niall Lawler have raised serious concerns following reports from constituents regarding suspected drug-related activity at the St Patrick’s Church graveyard car park in Bryansford.
Councillor Clarke has been contacted by several concerned constituents who reported the discovery of discarded drugs, including cocaine and ecstasy (MDMA), within the car park area.
The location is regularly used by parishioners attending church services, families visiting the graves of loved ones, and people participating in activities at the adjacent community hall.
The presence of illegal drugs in such a public and sensitive community space has caused significant alarm locally and raises serious concerns regarding public safety.
Cllr Willie Clarke is concerned at a drugs find at St Patrick’s Church graveyard in Bryansford.
Councillor Clarke said: “I am deeply concerned by reports from residents regarding suspected drug-related activity and the discovery of discarded Class A drugs, including cocaine and ecstasy (MDMA), within the church graveyard car park in Bryansford.
“This is a space used daily by families, parishioners, elderly residents, visitors to the graveyard and community groups. It is completely unacceptable that illegal substances are being discarded in an area so regularly accessed by the public.
“The fact these drugs have reportedly been left in a public car park is particularly alarming. Children and young people use this area frequently and there is a very real danger posed by illegal substances being left where they can be easily accessed.”
Councillor Niall Lawler said: “People should be able to attend worship, visit the graves of loved ones, and participate in community activities without being exposed to evidence of drug misuse or criminal behaviour.
“The community is rightly concerned and there is a clear need for increased vigilance and enforcement to address these issues and reassure local residents.”
The Sinn Féin representatives confirmed they have raised the matter directly with the PSNI and requested that the area receives increased monitoring and attention in response to community concerns.
Sinn Féin has formally raised these concerns with the PSNI and requested that the matter is fully investigated.
These are the words of Bangor man, Adam Bayliss, as he reflects on the life-threatening illness that left him fighting for survival in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Ulster Hospital.
In December 2025, Adam was admitted to ICU after developing Pneumonia that led to Sepsis, multiple organ failure and blood clots.
Over the following 11 weeks, he underwent intensive treatment, spending much of that time on a ventilator and in an induced coma while staff worked tirelessly to save his life.
Recognising the long-lasting impact critical illness can have on patients and their families, the South Eastern Trust was one of the first Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland to establish a dedicated ‘Critical Care Recovery Clinic’.
For more than 15 years, the service at the Ulster Hospital has been helping former ICU patients rebuild their confidence, understand their experiences and navigate the complex road to recovery.
While surviving a critical illness is a major milestone, for many patients the physical, emotional and psychological recovery continues long after they leave hospital.
The Intensive Care Unit at the Ulster Hospital saves lives and helps patients on the road to recovery: (l-r) Mairead McGrath (Pharmacist, ICU), Dr David Hendron (Consultant, ICU), Lucy Wilkinson (Sister, ICU).
The clinic is designed to support patients and their families after discharge from Intensive Care, providing specialist follow-up for those who have experienced life-threatening illness, prolonged ventilation or lengthy ICU stays.
Many patients leave Intensive Care with little or no memory of what happened to them, often struggling to understand the severity of their illness and the impact it may continue to have on their physical, emotional and psychological well-being.
Led by a dedicated Multi-Disciplinary Team comprising an ICU Consultant, ICU Nurse, Pharmacist and Physiotherapist, the clinic offers a holistic approach to recovery.
Patients receive emotional support, rehabilitation advice, medication reviews and the opportunity to discuss their treatment and recovery with the staff who cared for them during their time in ICU.
A unique aspect of the service is the opportunity for patients and their families to return to the Intensive Care Unit, meet members of the Team who looked after them and visit the bed space where they received treatment.
For many, this helps fill gaps in their memory, answer questions and come to terms with what has often been one of the most traumatic experiences of their lives.
One patient who understands the value of this support is Adam. After spending 11 weeks in ICU, much of it unconscious and critically ill, the Critical Care Recovery Clinic helped him understand the seriousness of what he had endured and provided invaluable support as he rebuilt his life.
Adam explained how he was admitted to ICU, and said: “I was in work one day and started feeling unwell. I was shivering and could not get warm. I went home early and later that evening I started coughing up blood.
“My ex-partner, who is a Nurse, told me to get checked out. The next morning I went to my GP, who found my oxygen levels were dangerously low and sent me straight to the Emergency Department. Within minutes I was in Intensive Care.”
Lucy Wilkinson (ICU Sister) and Adam Bayliss who was a patient in the ICU at the Ulster Hospital.
What followed was a battle for survival that Adam remembers very little about. Adam recalled, “I do not remember much from the beginning of December 2025 until the middle of January 2026.
“I had Pneumonia, Sepsis, multiple organ failure and blood clots. I was placed in an induced coma, put on a ventilator and later had a Tracheostomy. The Doctors and Nurses did an incredible amount of work to save my life.
“When I eventually came round, it was about trying to recover. My breathing improved, the blood clots cleared, but I had to learn to walk again and rebuild my strength.”
Although he spent eleven weeks in hospital, Adam says one of the biggest challenges came after leaving ICU, understanding what had happened to him.
Adam said: “I did not realise how sick I was. When you have been in a coma for weeks, there are huge gaps in your memory. There were things I did not understand about my illness, my treatment or what happened while I was unconscious.
“The Critical Care Recovery Clinic has helped answer those questions. It gave me the opportunity to meet the Doctors and Nurses who cared for me, understand what happened and come to terms with everything I went through.”
Adam said the clinic has played a vital role in helping him move forward, adding: “The staff know you because they have been there throughout your journey. They check how you are coping physically and emotionally, how you are getting on with your family and how you are adapting to life afterwards.
“It helps you understand that what you are experiencing is normal and that there are answers available.
“My message to anyone going through something similar is that you are not alone. There are people who understand what you have been through and who can help you make sense of it all.”
ICU Sister, Lucy Wilkinson said the clinic was developed because recovery from critical illness extends far beyond leaving hospital, “The Critical Care Recovery Clinic is for patients who have survived a serious ICU admission.
“While survival is incredibly important, we also focus on helping people regain their quality of life and supporting them as they return home.
“Many patients have little or no memory of their time in Intensive Care and that can cause significant emotional distress. Through the clinic, we provide assessment, rehabilitation advice, emotional support and a better understanding of what happened during their illness.
“We also give patients the opportunity to return to the unit and visit the bed space where they were cared for. For many people, this is a powerful and emotional experience that helps them understand how far they have come in their recovery.”
Lucy added: “This is an absolutely brilliant service for the emotional wellbeing of patients who have come through some of the most physically and psychologically challenging times of their lives.”
ICU Consultant, Dr David Hendron explained that critical illness often leaves lasting emotional effects long after patients leave hospital.
He said: “The vast majority of patients admitted to ICU arrive unexpectedly with life-threatening illnesses. They are often heavily sedated for days or weeks and many have little recollection of what happened.
“We know there can be high rates of anxiety, trauma and post-traumatic stress symptoms following critical illness. The Critical Care Recovery Clinic helps patients fill in the gaps, understand their experiences and regain a sense of control over their journey.
“It gives them an opportunity to ask questions directly, understand the treatments they received and make sense of what happened during a period when they were unable to participate in decisions about their care.”
The clinic’s Pharmacist Mairead McGrath also highlighted the benefits of the Team’s holistic approach. She added, “When patients return to clinic, they see the entire Multidisciplinary Team.
“We review medications, discuss any changes that were made during their ICU stay and ensure they understand their treatment going forward.
“It provides a valuable opportunity to identify any issues, answer questions and make sure patients have the support they need as they continue their recovery.”
For Adam, the Critical Care Recovery Clinic has been invaluable. Adam said: “The clinic helped me realise just how far I have come.
“When you are lying in a hospital bed fighting for your life, you never imagine you will get back to normal again. Looking back now, I am incredibly grateful to be here and I cannot thank the staff enough.”
