YZ v AB & Ors

Stephen Gilmore BL (instructed by Campbell & Grant, Solicitors) for the third respondent

Sinead O�Flaherty BL (instructed by the Official Solicitor�s Office) for the Official Solicitor

[1]������ These proceedings were commenced by way of originating summons dated 1 June 2021. �The kernel of the relief sought was an order, pursuant to the inherent jurisdiction of the court, that the applicant be permitted to have direct contact with the first and second respondents, having been prevented from so doing by the third respondent.

[2]������ The applicant and third respondent are sisters. �The first and second respondents are their parents. �Sadly, the first respondent, who is aged 82, suffers from dementia. �The second respondent, who is also aged 82, has significant health issues and suffered a stroke which has impacted upon her speech, amongst other things, and resulted in global dysphasia.� It is common case that they are both frail and in ill health. This judgment has been anonymised to protect the identity of the first and second respondent.

[3]������ Mr Gillen appeared for the applicant; and Mr Gilmore appeared for the third respondent.� The first and second respondents� interests were represented by the Official Solicitor, for whom Ms O�Flaherty appeared.� I am grateful to all counsel involved for their succinct and helpful submissions; and for the pragmatic engagement between them at various stages of this litigation.� Regrettably, it has not proven possible for the core issue in dispute to be resolved by agreement.