Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I extend my deepest sympathy to the four families we know of who lost infants in tragic circumstances in the Midlands Regional Hospital, Portlaoise. As the parents stated, they have been treated disgracefully in their words, which are absolutely correct. They were kept in the dark about how and why they suffered these tragic losses. The HSE has admitted serious failings and I ask the Minister whether this underlines the absolute need for full openness and transparency in the investigation of what happened and why. That needs to be established quickly. The revelation that staff at Portlaoise hospital had already raised the alarm and wrote to Brian Cowen and Mary Harney about concerns about obstetric care in 2006 is alarming, given that it has not been satisfactorily addressed in the years since. When was the Minister made aware of the previous representation and identified need? When was he made aware of the actual need in his role as Minister since he took office?

I noted at the health committee meeting last week that the scop of Dr. Holohan's report had not been worked out. It should include all relevant issues. Will the Minister confirm that it will include the inadequate staffing levels at the hospital?

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