Dublin GP Faces Inquiry Over Social Media Criticism of Covid Rules

UPDATE: A Dublin-based GP, Marcus de Brun, is facing urgent scrutiny as he stands accused of 10 counts of professional misconduct related to his outspoken criticism of Covid-19 measures on social media. The inquiry, held by the Medical Council, is examining the implications of his actions amid the ongoing pandemic.

Dr. de Brun has claimed there is “a degree of collusion” in the evidence against him, particularly targeting the testimony of expert witness Colin Bradley, who labeled the GP’s behavior as “disgraceful and dishonourable.” The inquiry, which resumed on October 25, 2023, has drawn significant public attention as it raises questions about the limits of professional conduct during a health crisis.

The heart of the controversy stems from Dr. de Brun’s public remarks about lockdowns, mask mandates, and vaccination protocols, which he argues were fueled by the distress of losing patients during the pandemic. He stated that his anger expressed on platforms like Twitter was a direct response to what he perceives as government failures and inaction by the Medical Council.

In August 2020, Dr. de Brun participated in a public rally in Dublin where he was accused of not adhering to safety protocols, including wearing a facemask. The Medical Council alleges that his comments undermined public health guidelines and contravened their code of ethics.

Dr. de Brun’s defense hinges on claims that Professor Bradley’s evidence lacks independence. He argues that the inclusion of Bradley’s testimony would be unfair due to its reliance on a complaint made by controversial viral immunologist Graham Bottley, who had a prior Twitter dispute with the GP. Dr. de Brun contends that the Medical Council’s decision to consider Dr. Bottley as a witness was only abandoned after he raised objections.

During the ongoing inquiry, Dr. de Brun is representing himself and has expressed that his long-standing practice of 23 years as a GP should not be overshadowed by social media interactions. He read a supportive email from a patient, affirming their positive relationship and contesting claims of dismissiveness towards patients on social media.

However, Professor Bradley emphasized that Dr. de Brun’s online conduct could be interpreted as encouraging vaccine hesitancy, which he deemed inappropriate for a medical professional during a global health crisis. He reiterated that while some of Dr. de Brun’s critiques were echoed by others, they were presented in a more responsible manner.

As the inquiry continues, the chairperson, Deirdre Murphy, announced that the committee will deliberate on the admissibility of Professor Bradley’s evidence at a later date. The outcome of this inquiry could have significant ramifications for Dr. de Brun’s career and the broader conversation around professional accountability in the face of public health emergencies.

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