Sharon Shoesmith, the former head of Haringey Child Services, sacked by Ed Balls over the tragic Baby P affair, once again appeared to stick two fingers up at public opinion, when she claimed that her department was not in disarray.
Ms Shoesmith was exonerated of any blame for the tragic events in court on Friday, paving the way for a compensation claim on the grounds of unfair dismissal.
She reiterated that she was in no way culpable for the events leading up to the tragedy, despite the fact that social workers failed to spot one of the most horrendous child abuse cases in recent history.
Baby Peter died under a barrage of systematic brutality, which occurred under the noses of social workers from Haringey Child Services.
"What does it take for somebody to accept responsibility?" a concerned Haringey resident complained. "A child who was known to be at risk came to a terrible end under the supervision of these individuals. Shoesmith gets a huge pay out, and her name cleared. There won't be a day in court for baby Peter. This woman makes me feel physically sick. For God's sake, can't she see that her department failed in the most catastrophic way imaginable? She's just sticking two fingers up to every right thinking person. The woman's an egomaniac. Unfortunately, it seems that's the way this country's going. It's all about 'Me! Me! Me!' The whole affair leaves a very bitter taste. I wouldn't let Shoesmith take my kids to the local play area. She's a disgrace."
Strong words there.
More as we get it.
