A DELAYED Fatal Accident Inquiry into the death of a man who choked on food unsuitable for his dietary requirements at a Greenock care home will begin next month.

Robert McPaul died at the age of 70 while staying at Sir Gabriel Wood’s Mariners’ Home, which has since closed, on March 30 in 2018.

The FAI has been delayed on three occasions as preparations were made by the Crown and legal representatives for the former home’s operator, the Sailors’ Society.

It is now due to begin at Greenock Sheriff Court on December 15.

A preliminary hearing on Wednesday heard that witness statements have been agreed in a joint minute presented to Sheriff Sheena Fraser.

As a result, no witnesses are due to give evidence in person at the inquiry.

READ MORE: Greenock FAI into Mariners' Home death delayed for third time

Sheriff Fraser asked that the Crown lodges its written submissions on December 1, with the other legal representatives involved to follow on December 8.

She said oral submissions will also be heard on the day if there is anything to add.

A procurator fiscal depute confirmed that Mr McPaul’s family have been receiving updates on the progress of the FAI.

Sheriff Fraser asked that the Crown provide her with an update on December 15 regarding whether or not Mr McPaul’s relatives are attending.

She added: “That’s not something the court would have any difficulty with.”

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The FAI aims to establish Mr McPaul’s cause of death, the circumstances in which it occurred and what reasonable precautions, if any, could have been taken.

Unlike criminal proceedings, the inquiry is inquisitorial and intends to establish facts rather than apportion blame.

There will be a particular focus on control and supervisory measures at the home in relation to dietary requirements during meals.

At the end of proceedings, Sheriff Fraser will issue a determination setting out details about the death and any defects in the system of work which contributed to it.

She may also make recommendations for practices going forward.