Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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647. To ask the Minister for Health in view of the RTE "Prime Time Investigates" programme on Portlaoise Hospital if similar reviews into baby deaths have been performed in other maternity hospitals; the number of such incidents; if families have been informed of any such reports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6855/14]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The Health Service Executive's Risk and Incident Investigation Process provides a framework for conducting investigations into serious incidents. Investigations of serious incidents including baby deaths have been conducted under the Process with support provided by the Executive's National Incident Management Team as appropriate.

The Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of my Department is currently preparing a report for me on the issues at Portlaoise. I have assured the families concerned that the process will be transparent, that they will be involved and will have the opportunity to see the report in advance of the release. The findings of the CMO's report will inform any subsequent work to be undertaken by HIQA or others including any wider review.

As the Deputy will be aware my Department is currently undertaking a review of maternity services and in conjunction with the HSE, will develop a new National Maternity Strategy this year. This will provide the strategic direction for the optimal development of our maternity services to ensure that women have access to safe, high quality maternity care in a setting most appropriate to their needs. Developing the strategy will provide the opportunity to take stock of current services and identify how the quality and safety of care provided to pregnant women and their babies can be improved further.