Section 10T – Emergency cancellation of registration
226.Subsections (1) to (3) enable HIS to apply to the sheriff for an order cancelling the registration of any independent health care service. The sheriff may make such an order where he considers that, unless the order is made there will be serious risk to the life, health or well-being of users of the service (or other persons). Subsections (4) and (5) require HIS to inform the appropriate authorities and the provider of the application where an order (or an interim order) is made. Subsection (6) allows the Sheriff to determine the application even where the service provider is not present.
227.Subsection (7) provides that the order can come into effect on the day it is made or on some later date decided by the sheriff. An order to cancel a service’s registration would have the effect of closing the service. This provision therefore allows a delay before closure takes effect in order that the service may be closed down in a proper manner and for instance services users relocated.
228.Subsections (8) and (9) allow an appeal to be made to the sheriff within 14 days of an order being made and for the sheriff principal on hearing such an appeal to confirm, revoke or modify the order. The order remains in force when an appeal is made. No further appeal is allowed.