'No need' for security review despite hospital knife man

HEALTH officials say there is no need to tighten hospital security despite a man entering the building with a knife.

No extra security measures are to be introduced following the incident in which Tony Le Patourel, having already assaulted two members of the medical staff, returned to the building with a knife.

The 32-year-old was sentenced to six months in prison for the assault on a doctor and a nurse in Frossard Ward's special care baby unit in May.

In the Magistrate's Court it emerged that, following the incident, he went to his car and returned with a small knife.

While his advocate said he had intended to harm only himself, it raised questions about security measures in place at the Princess Elizabeth Hospital.

Director of corporate services at Health and Social Services Richard Evans said it was necessary to 'balance risk against the resources required'.

The department did not think the incident required a major review of security.

It is only the second physical assault on a member of the medical staff in the last two-and-a-half years. There have been seven verbal assaults during that time.

'Fortunately, such incidents are very rare,' said Mr Evans.

Forty-two CCTV cameras are in place at the PEH site and there are more at other HSSD facilities including the Castel and King Edward VII hospitals. In addition, the PEH is locked after evening visiting.

Head of portering and security Roger Dinallo said regular patrols are undertaken inside and outside the buildings.