Maire Devine (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I want to highlight yet again the Midlands Regional Hospital in Portlaoise. Following the tragic preventable deaths of infant babies in this hospital over the past number of years, HIQA produced a report setting out hundreds of recommendations to restore safe and quality services. An updated report, published in the past few days, stated that some progress had been made but there remain serious concerns in relation to the provision of services there. The hospital is dangerously understaffed and there is a distinct problem recruiting non-consultant doctors and midwives. Given the tragedies that occurred in this hospital, it is shocking that there are still only 32 midwives working in the maternity area where there should be 52. This is indefensible and the Government, along with the Department of Health, has to take full responsibility for it.

Listening to the response of the CEO of the Dublin Midlands Hospital Group was alarming to say the least. Stating the updated report contained no surprises and was balanced and fair, while making comparisons to other hospitals nationally which face similar challenges, simply does not cut it. This attitude is almost accepting defeat and will also accept the inevitable tragedies that occur into the future at this troubled hospital unless determined leadership is shown and a clear long-term strategy is put in place. The uncertain future of Portlaoise hospital is compounding the problems with rumours and counter-rumours leading to recruitment issues and low morale among existing staff. I am calling on the Minister, Deputy Harris, to publish the action plan for the hospital which has been submitted to his Department to ensure that the services in the hospital are sufficiently staffed to prevent further tragedies and to make a statement to this House confirming how and when the problems in the hospital will be rectified for the safety of mothers and babies.