The former chief executive of CI╔, Mr Michael McDonnell, who was treated for depression after his early retirement from the post in February, suffered a "self-inflicted death" in April, an inquest in Dublin heard yesterday.
Mr McDonnell, of Terenure Road West, Dublin, was found dead in the garage of his home shortly after midnight on April 8th.
The assistant State pathologist, Dr Marie Cassidy, told the inquest there was evidence of anti-depressant drugs in Mr McDonnell's system on post-mortem examination. This confirmed he had been taking the medication prescribed for his illness. There was no alcohol in his system.
His daughter, Ms Orla McDonnell, told the inquest her father had never suffered from depression until he was "forced to leave" his position as chief executive of CI╔.
In statements, his wife, Noreen, and son, Niall, indicated Mr McDonnell had not suffered from depression until after he left the post in February.
Garda Sgt Mark McKeown of Terenure station said he was satisfied there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
The Dublin city coroner, Dr Brian Farrell, returned a verdict of "self-inflicted death", which Mr Patrick Rowan, solicitor for the family, said would be "very much in ease of the situation". The coroner extended sympathy to the family on the "tragic death".