Wexford GP Faces Medical Council Inquiry Over COVID-19 Social Media Posts

A Wexford GP is facing accusations of professional misconduct stemming from social media posts critical of public health measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Billy Ralph, who operates The Ballagh Health Centre in Enniscorthy, is at the center of a Medical Council inquiry concerning comments made on Twitter (now X) between October 2020 and June 2022.

Allegations of Professional Misconduct

The Medical Council alleges Dr. Ralph made several inappropriate statements on social media that undermined public health guidelines. These include a claim that various public health initiatives were “all bullshit.” The inquiry focuses on tweets critical of the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) and COVID-19 vaccinations, particularly for children.

Specific allegations include the promotion of ivermectin as a COVID-19 treatment and opposition to facemasks and lockdowns. Dr. Ralph reportedly suggested that ivermectin could “end this ‘pandemic’ as well as the careers of many doctors, academics and politicians.” He also made statements questioning the severity of the pandemic and the motives of public health officials.

Counsel for the Medical Council, Neasa Bird BL, argued that Dr. Ralph’s comments, made as a medical practitioner, carried weight and influence and were not appropriate for a public forum like Twitter. She also stated that Twitter was not a suitable platform for “complex discussions on matters of public health.”

Dr. Ralph’s Defense

Dr. Ralph is representing himself at the inquiry and has argued that disagreeing with NPHET policy does not constitute professional misconduct. He maintains that his views were guided by science and not “dogma and scientism.” He also stated that his Twitter account included a disclaimer indicating his comments were not medical advice and that HSE guidelines should be followed.

Dr. Ralph expressed concern over the delay in bringing the case forward and noted he was one of eight GPs who challenged public health guidelines. He also welcomed clarification that the allegations related solely to his social media posts and not to any clinical matter. He claims his practice has grown by 900 patients since April 2021, with individuals seeking care due to dissatisfaction with their previous GPs.

Constitutional Rights and Freedom of Expression

Ms. Bird acknowledged Dr. Ralph’s constitutional right to freedom of expression, but argued that this right is not absolute and is subject to considerations of public order and morality. The inquiry is examining whether Dr. Ralph’s statements undermined public health efforts during a critical period of the pandemic.

Inquiry Status

The fitness-to-practise inquiry, which began on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, is scheduled to last three days. The committee acknowledged there is no statutory definition of the word “undermine” and will apply its “natural and ordinary meaning” in its deliberations. The inquiry was adjourned and will resume on Thursday.

In September 2022, Dr. Ralph returned to work after a period of time off and was greeted by supporters who voiced their support for him.

Dr. Ralph has also applied to the European Court of Human Rights over his treatment by the Irish Medical Council.