The inquest into Noah Donohoe’s death concluded that a failure by the Department for Infrastructure to adequately manage access to a water culvert may have contributed to his death, while police failings were not found to have contributed.

The jury found Noah died sometime between 7pm and midnight on June 21, after leaving his home at 5:40pm and being seen cycling in the Cavehill area; he was reported missing the following day.

Fiona Donohoe’s solicitor criticized a culture of institutional defensiveness and a reckless disregard for securing evidence, saying the death deserved a full, fearless investigation and that public bodies showed persistent failings.

Donohoe expressed gratitude to the coroner and witnesses, while her lawyer emphasized her resilience in seeking answers and criticized departments for defending their stances during the process.

Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins said there are lessons to be learned, accepted the inquest findings, and pledged to consider the details and implement improvements without blaming Noah.

Officials acknowledged the tragedy and said police would apply learnings to future investigations, with the minister reiterating a commitment to avoid repeating the failings identified.

Kimmins stressed that the verdict will be used to drive department changes and again rejected any suggestion of blame on Noah or his family.

The article notes ongoing coverage from reporters in court, including collaboration between Ciarán Dunbar and Belfast Telegraph’s Liam Tunney.

Media commentary, including Fiona Donohoe’s statements and Belfast Telegraph coverage, continued to shape the story as the inquest unfolded.

Dunbar and Tunney were highlighted as key journalists following the case from court.

The report centers on the legal findings rather than introducing new theories about the case.

Solicitor Niall Murphy emphasized Fiona Donohoe’s enduring suffering and resilience, noting the indignities she endured and the repeated attempts by the DfI and PSNI to defend their positions.