The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service have lodged a notice to begin the progress for a fatal accident inquiry (FAI) into the death of Robert McPaul.

The care home resident was residing at Sir Gabriel Wood’s Mariners’ Home in Greenock where he died after choking on food which was not appropriate for his dietary requirements.

On the 19th July 2023 there will be a preliminary hearing at Greenock Sheriff Court. The hearing will consist of the circumstances into Mr McPaul’s death with the focus on control and supervisory measures in relation to his dietary requirements. 

Andy Shanks who leads death investigations for COPFS stated that “the death of Mr McPaul occurred due to significant public concern and such inquiry should be held”.

Unlike criminal proceedings a FAI is used to determine the cause of the death and circumstances in which the death occurred and what reasonable precautions could have been taken and what could be implemented in the future in order to minimise any future risks. 

Lodging the First Notice will allow FAI proceedings to commence under the direction of the Sheriff and Mr McPaul’s family will be kept informed of the Court proceedings progress.