Essential that public confidence in Portlaoise Hospital is fully restored – Flanagan

Fine Gael TD for Laois Offaly, Charlie Flanagan, has said that the findings of the report on maternity deaths at Portlaoise Hospital must be used to deliver the highest standard of patient care at the maternity unit in Portlaoise. Deputy Flanagan was speaking after Minister for Health, James Reilly TD, announced that HIQA would be carrying out a thorough investigation into maternity services at the hospital.

“It is only right and proper that a comprehensive investigation be carried out having regard to the dreadful and tragic circumstances of events. No family should have to endure what these families have gone through over the past number of years. The recent revelations have cast a dark shadow over the hospital and these measures are a necessary step to put matters right.

“It is essential that both the reputation of Portlaoise Hospital and public confidence in the hospital is fully restored and that the corrective actions required are swiftly undertaken.  I welcome Minister Reilly’s comments that outcomes of this report will be used to support and deliver a high standard of quality care in Portlaoise Hospital.

“There is now a responsibility on the HSE to cooperate with the HIQA investigation, fully comply with the outcomes of this investigation and ensure that all recommendations are implemented. Best practice must be fully observed to ensure that expectant parents can have complete confidence in patient safety and care at Portlaoise Hospital.”
Ends