Tributes paid to Mayo consultant pathologist on his retirement

A consultant pathologist who has carried out hundreds of post mortem examinations at Mayo University Hospital (MUH) is vacating that position.

Dr. Fadel Bennani is stepping down from his role after a career spanning more than 20 years.

Part of Dr. Bennani’s work has involved carrying out post-mortem examinations on persons who die in unexplained circumstances and furnishing specific evidence as to the medical cause of death at subsequent inquest hearings.

Dr. Eleanor Fitzgerald, Coroner for the District of Mayo, paid tribute to Dr. Bennani for the professional and gracious manner at various hearings over the years.

She especially mentioned the empathy and compassion he has always shown to those who are grieving after losing loved ones.

Sergeant Noel Crinnegan, Garda Courts Presenter, said that Dr. Bennani will be missed by all the many gardai he has dealt with over the years.

Responding, Dr. Bennani thanked all the coroners he has worked with and also members of An Garda Siochana for the good working relationship he has always enjoyed with them.

He also thanked the local and national media who cover inquests stating they play a vital role in getting the message across to the public about issues which can endanger life such as drink and drug driving.

On a personal note, Dr. Bennani said he had no intention of leaving Mayo where his children had grown up and was home to him and his family.