A Londonderry man left in a permanent vegetative state following a sectarian attack has been asked by the Social Security Agency if he is fit for work.
Paul McCauley, 36, was attacked by a gang at a barbecue in the Waterside area of the city on 16 July 2006.
He suffered severe brain injuries and requires round-the-clock care. One man is serving 12 years for his part in the assault.
“This can be difficult and emotional,” said the Social Security Agency.
Mr McCauley’s family told the BBC they are “disgusted” by the letter.
His father, Jim, said a 12-page document with 30 questions had been posted around the Christmas period in 2012.
“In the majority of the questions we had to record that our son is in a permanent vegetative state,” he said.
“I tried to phone the department but I didn’t get through to anyone.
“I was later sent a second form and I assumed it was an error.
Mr McCauley’s family have said
they are “disgusted at the insensitivity of the letter”.
Mr McCauley told the BBC that the family decided to speak out about the issue after a similar story was broadcast on BBC Radio Foyle in August.
Jim said he only just picked up the courage to talk to the media following months of “anger.” He said he felt he responded adequately to the Social Security Agency the first time and said Christmas time was an “extremely insensitive period” to send such document.
“Something the Social Security Agency should look at is how they collect information,” he said.
“This was quite distressing for the entire family at the time and talking about it now brings back memories.
“All the agencies are entitled to collect their information but some greater sensitivity should be shown for those involved in an industrial accident, a road accident, a sectarian or drunken attack.
“There is a lot of trauma for the family and it’s not eased when forms like this really rub salt in the wounds.”
27th August 2013. Read the full BBC News article here:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-foyle-west-23839671
