Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 14 Jun 1994

Vol. 443 No. 7

Written Answers. - Child Death Inquiry.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

189 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if he will set up an inquiry into the death of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12; if he will ensure that the hospital authorities, Department of Health and parents of the child sit down together and discuss the full details of the case with a view to endeavouring to correct any alleged wrong which might have occurred; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

The position is that the hospital is legally constrained in this case by the confidentiality of its relationship with the mother who was the legal guardian of the deceased child. I understand that the hospital authorities have made every effort to answer all of the questions which have been raised in relation to the case within the constraints placed upon them.