Ballycastle-born doctor Siobhan O’Connor dies in Austria ski accident

It’s understood that Dr Siobhan O’Connor was an experienced skier who crashed while skiing down a steep snow slope on Tuesday morning.

The emergency services were alerted by her skiing companions when they reached her and discovered her hurt but it is understood that the highly respected psychiatrist was dead on arrival to the hospital.

Dr O’Connor, who was in her fifties, was based in London for many years, however made frequent visits back home.

She worked as a consultant psychiatrist for adults in Maudsley Hospital in south London, having graduated from Queens University Belfast.

She previously worked as a consultant psychiatrist/psychotherapist with Downshire Hospital in Downpatrick for several years before making the move to London.

The Royal College of Psychiatrists in Northern Ireland said that it was saddened to learn of the death of its esteemed colleague and friend.

A spokesman added: “Our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this sad time. Siobhan was a Fellow of both the Royal College of Psychiatrists and the Institute of Psychoanalysis.

“She was a founder member of the Northern Ireland Association for the Study of Psychoanalysis and was its chair for many years.”

Nick Temple, president of the British Psychoanalytical Society, has told of how shocked he and fellow colleagues were of learning of Dr O’Connor’s death.

“We are all very shocked and saddened by this news of the loss of one of most vigorous and active members. Siobhan was a highly respected and valued professional who did great work either by regularly speaking at our events or helping with training of the younger members of our profession, “ he added.

“She will be greatly missed and our sympathies goes out to her family and friends.”