Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Mr. O'Brien referred to the issue I wish to raise, which is a duty of candour, openness and transparency in dealing with patients but equally in dealing with staff and, for example, encouragement for whistleblowers, as they are described, to come forward to voice concerns. When they come forward, there should be a process in place to address their concerns. There was to be an investigation of the matter involving Dr. James Gray in Tallaght hospital and how the information leaked out. I do not know whether that has been discovered. However, there is the broader principle of employees of the HSE being able to raise an issue without fear of vilification. I am not saying they are the circumstances in this case, but that issue must be addressed. If people are employed and see things in a hospital or workplace that are bad practice or otherwise, there must be some facility in place where they can go without fear of pressure from peers or from the employer. The Gray case brought it to a very important point in terms of us addressing it.