Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for allowing a brief debate on this matter. This has been a very sad time for mothers and families, particularly in the midlands area. Serious deficiencies have been exposed, including disturbing failures at a senior level in HSE management. The worst aspect was a failure to put the patient first. An apology in these circumstances is not sufficient. I am asking the Minister to ensure that due process is essential and that Portlaoise Hospital is not made a scapegoat in this issue. There is an urgent need on the Minister's part to restore confidence in the quality of maternity services at Portlaoise Hospital. It is a busy hospital covering a large catchment area with 2,200 babies being born there every year. We have seen a big population increase in County Laois. I want the Minister to ensure that we have a thorough examination of all practices and procedures.

This must include staffing levels, accommodation and implementation of national and, if necessary, international protocols. There should be ongoing training and development of a professional nature. I want the Minister to indicate now the specific measures the HSE is undertaking to ensure high-quality service to expectant mothers in the midlands area. I acknowledge the hard work of the midwives, doctors and those concerned at the hospital. They are under pressure. My constituents want the highest standards in the midlands. Why are these standards being denied? We have had a number of debates about the hospital. Unfortunately, the predecessors of the Minister neglected to take appropriate action, as has been said in recent days. I want to see strategies and quality of care. We cannot allow the lessons of the documentary television programme of last week to go unheeded.

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