MAY 2018: 2,500 patients of Dr Michael Watt's 'active caseload' was recalled by the Belfast trust due to "safety concerns" about his work. He was based at the Royal Victoria Hospital for more than 20 years and also carried out extensive private work. He is withdrawn from clinical duties but not suspended, remaining on full pay
- Multiple Sclerosis patients as well as people suffering from Parkinson's, stroke and Motor Neurone Disease were among those affected
- A redress scheme announced for those who suffer "profound implications" following misdiagnosis is announced by the Department of Health. Hundreds more private patients are also to be recalled
- The RQIA also ordered to carry out a review into patient deaths
- Independent inquiry set up under top QC, Brett Lockhart
NOVEMBER 2018: A further 1,044 cases discharged from the medic's care were recalled in November 2018 by the trust
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JANUARY 2019: Dr Watt temporarily suspended from practising as a doctor in the UK
JULY 2019: Irish News reveals the medic has applied to retire on medical grounds
NOVEMBER 2019: Dr Watt offers his "sincere sympathy" to those affected following a BBC Spotlight programme. A department report finds that one in five patients received an 'unsecure' or unreliable diagnosis
SEPTEMBER 2020: Irish News report Dr Watt leaves trust, 18 months after his suspension
NOVEMBER 2020: Lockhart inquiry elevated to a public inquiry
APRIL 2020: Third and 'final' recall of a further 209 patients by Belfast trust. Officials confirm that a review of 66 'blood patch' patients found that 45 had procedure carried out unnecessarily. Apology is issued and all 45 affected receive written confirmation
