A former Canadian soldier who killed three family members and himself in 2017 complained about repeated head injuries soon after he left the military in 2015, an inquiry heard.

During the first phase of the provincial fatality inquiry, which started last year, the hearings focused on the involvement of police and provincial health and firearms officials.

The inquiry heard for the first time from Lionel Desmond's immediate family, including Shanna Desmond's parents and her younger brother.

Orlando Trotter described how he and Desmond took part in intense firefights with the Taliban on an almost daily basis over a seven-month period.

The inquiry heard testimony from Albert (Junior) MacLellan, a retired warrant officer who was called in to help the grieving families.

The former Canadian soldier was suffering from severe post-traumatic stress disorder and a possible traumatic brain injury when he was released from the military in 2015.

Jennifer Stairs said in a news release Friday the fatality inquiry in the Lionel Desmond case will go ahead in mid-February at the courthouse in Port Hawkesbury, N.S.

Provincial Justice Minister Mark Furey confirmed Thursday that work is underway to find a larger venue to ensure the hearings can comply with physical distancing protocols, but he could not say how long that will take.

Nova Scotia's chief firearms officer, John Parkin, is providing details about firearms licensing practices.

The inquiry has heard that Lionel Desmond believed the drug had helped reduce his anxiety and depression, while virtually eliminating his suicidal thoughts.