Scottish Catholic Observer

by Amanda Connelly

The European Court of Human Rights refused to intervene the case presented by Chris Gard and Connie Yates on June 27, stating that the potential of experimental treatment would ‘continue to cause Charlie significant harm’ and had ‘no prospects of success’.

It marks the end of months of legal battles with numerous courts for Charlie’s parents, as the European court decision closes the last legal option for the family.

Having appealed to the European Court of Human Rights after losing battles in both the High Court and Supreme Court in the UK, judges at the European Court endorsed the conclusions of the UK courts and said that their ruling was ‘final’.

The Strasbourg court also removed a court order on Great Ormond Street doctors, where Charlie is being treated, who had been required to continue life support treatment for the child.

However, doctors said they would no rush to change the care Charlie currently receives, and changes would ‘involve careful planning and discussion’.

Charlie is believed to be one of only 16 children in the world who suffer from mitochondrial depletion syndrome, a genetic condition that causes progressive weakening of the muscles and brain damage.

Doctors have argued that Charlie is unable to see, hear, cry or swallow, and can only breathe due to the help of a ventilator.

They argued that the experimental treatment would not improve Charlie’s condition, and would only cause him more suffering and pain.