Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Last week's revelation detailing the severe complications faced by 19 children at Temple Street Hospital is nothing short of a nightmare for families. Revelations like this challenge the very fabric of trust on which our healthcare system is built. I was reassured to hear Bernard Gloster, the CEO of the HSE, confirm that planned spinal surgeries are not being postponed but we must acknowledge the grim reality. Families continue to endure unacceptably long waits for critical surgeries and the trust these families have in the medical system has been shaken. Every aspect of the situation needs to be examined, from the unauthorised use of springs in spinal surgeries to the broader governance and operational matters across the health service. It is important that we acknowledge the recent strides that have been made. There has been a 47% increase in scoliosis procedures and 509 spinal surgeries were conducted last year and this year's count is already at 290. There was also the inauguration of the fifth theatre at Temple Street. The reality is that trust in the system has now been shaken and we need to rebuild it. Having information and facts is how we do that. The unwavering efforts of the whistleblower and advocacy groups like Scoliosis Advocacy Network and the Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Paediatric Advocacy group show why it is important for everyone to pay attention and speak up in the pursuit of information and facts. I am pleased the Taoiseach is meeting them because their persistent calls for transparency highlight the importance of outside voices in maintaining accountability within our institutions.

To Mr. Nayagam, who is leading the review, it is vital to widen the investigation and directly involve affected families and advocacy groups. I was pleased to hear this morning that is his intention. We must hear from the families at the heart of this. We must listen to their concerns and once we have the facts, the Government must respond. I urge the Minister to push for the broadening of the scope of the investigation. Let us ensure that every aspect, decision point and flaw that led to this failure is laid bare. Only then can we rebuild trust with these families and parents and children who are still waiting on surgeries.

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