Accessing records of psychiatric institutions

Artdeco30

My great aunt spent most of her life in St Davnet's psychiatric hospital in Monaghan. I am told that she was sent there for being difficult as a teenager - the old Irish story of getting rid of anyone unorthodox and locking them up.

She passed away about twenty years ago. Are there records that can be accessed? Does her relatively recent death complicate access? I would be so grateful for any kind of a steer in terms of finding out more information.

pinkypinky

You'll need to do a Freedom of Information request. First thing is to find out where the records are now.

Some details of one I did for Grangegorman are below. I had to provide details of my connection to the person. In this case, I am direct descendent. If your great-aunt has children/grandchildren, they might need to apply.

http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?p=91097354

Artdeco30

Thanks very much for taking the time to reply.

My great aunt was admitted in her teens and never got out so no children. She has siblings alive but they will have zero interest in applying for the records. Is that a problem in terms of me making an application, do you think?

pinkypinky

I don't know but you can surely get one of them to sign something saying you are working on their behalf if necessary?

Artdeco30

Mmm. My great aunt's siblings would prefer if all was left well alone and nobody asked any questions about the past.