Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this matter. In 2019, the HSE recognised the need for increased awareness surrounding the correct identification and diagnosis of fatal foetal anomalies. The clinical review of termination services, as provided under section 11 of the Health (Regulation of Termination Pregnancy) Act 2018, was commissioned by the chief clinical officer of the HSE. From notifications I receive under this Act, I understand that termination services are provided under section 11 in approximately 100 cases each year.

The HSE has confirmed that the clinical review group met for the first time on 29 April 2022. The terms of reference were ratified by the review oversight group in advance of this meeting. I will ask the Department of Health to provide the terms of reference directly to the Deputy. The HSE has advised that the clinical review will identify the requirements to enhance the provision of termination services under section 11 of the Act. It will work collaboratively with stakeholders and there are quite a number of stakeholders involved. This will cover both the delivery and management of termination under services regarding fatal foetal anomalies and-or life-limiting conditions diagnosed during pregnancy. The group will engage with service users so their experience of the service is central to the process. It is essential that we hear not only from the clinicians and scientists but from the women themselves and the people involved in using the services. Recommendations will then be made and submitted to the HSE oversight group.

The HSE has stated that the review will examine areas including screening, diagnostics services and genetics in the context of fatal foetal anomalies and life-limiting conditions. It will also examine access to the multidisciplinary expertise that is required and which is being invested in, including clinical genetics and other specialties, counselling services and genetic counselling, which must be put in place, bereavement and other service user supports.

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