‘Lessons not learned after my in-laws were killed’

Mrs Baird died as a result of catastrophic head injuries after being attacked by her husband with a hammer at their Windermere Road home.

Belfast Crown Court heard Baird was “clearly unwell and heard voices in his head”.

Following the death of his wife, he was detained in Belfast City Hospital’s acute mental health unit for more than a year.

On Monday defence barrister Brian McCartney KC said “this was an impulsive act which culminated after weeks of psychotic torture that my client suffered”.

Mr Little said the health service, health minister, police service and justice departments needed to work together to make changes to the system.

“I’d like to send my condolences to the Baird family, we here really feel for them,” he said.

The Department of Health said the Cawdery inquest had highlighted the need for “robust and collaborative multi-agency working in dealing with mental health in Northern Ireland”.

“The Departments of Health and Justice have now established a multiagency task and finish group to take forward the recommendations made by the coroner and ensure that vital lessons are learned.” the statement added.

The Bairds’ children were in court on Monday, as they have been throughout the case.

The court was told “they’re here for both their mummy and their daddy”.

“Mr Baird will eventually return to a supportive family. A loving family. This is a highly tragic case and requires a unique approach,” the defence barrister said.