| Synopsis: |
This report examines the events leading to the discovery of fraud perpetrated by George Brangam, solicitor and owner of the legal practice of Brangam Bagnall & Co against the health service. The report reveals the extensive nature of the 28 cases and action taken since they were uncovered. Fraudulent payments of GBP 277,652 were identified, in six of the eleven health bodies throughout Northern Ireland, for whom the firm provided legal services. As a result of these frauds, which occurred over a period of eight years, money that could have been spent on front-line activity in the health service was siphoned out of the system. Judgment has been obtained ordering full recovery of the amount claimed, including costs. The report concludes with a number of recommendations for the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, the health bodies and The Law Society, to tighten up controls to prevent this happening again. |