Ivana Bacik (Dublin Bay South, Labour)
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560. To ask the Minister for Health when he will implement the recommendation of the National Perinatal Epidemiology Centre to establish an inquiry for stillbirth and neonatal death; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60121/21]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The National Perinatal Epidemiology Centre (NPEC) is based in Cork University Maternity Hospital. The overall objective of the centre is to collaborate with Irish maternity services to translate clinical audit data and epidemiological evidence into improved maternity care for families in Ireland. The NPEC works with the National Women and Infants Health Programme (NWIHP) and the National Office of Clinical Audit (NOCA).

Perinatal mortality is an important measure of obstetric and neonatal care. Regular audit of perinatal mortality can identify modifiable risk factors which decrease the risk of perinatal death and also inform clinical practice. The NPEC has provided an annual national assessment of Perinatal Mortality in Ireland, from a clinical viewpoint, since 2008.

The NPEC Perinatal Mortality in Ireland Biennial Report 2018/2019was published in October 2021. The NPEC Perinatal Mortality Advisory Group makes recommendations in the Report, including that the establishment of an enquiry for stillbirth and neonatal deaths should be considered in order to enhance the lessons which may improve care.

The Department of Health have been advised that this recommendation is presently under consideration by NPEC, the NWIHP and the Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (IOG) and they are seeking to formulate an agreed position to progress this recommendation.