Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 May 2013
255. Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the reason that no ambulance was available in Midleton, County Cork, on 6 May 2013 to respond to a seriously injured toddler who fell from a balcony and died later the same week; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23427/13]
View answer258. Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Health his views on whether it is acceptable that members of the public who dial 999 are informed that no ambulance is available, and that they are then advised to organise their own transport and take a seriously ill child to South Doc and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23430/13]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 255 and 258 together.
Firstly, I would like to extend my sympathies to the family of the deceased child and to all those involved. The death of a child in any circumstances is a tragedy for all concerned. The incident has been referred to the HSE's Serious Incident Management Team. In line with HSE incident review methodology, an incident review has been commissioned into the manner in which an emergency 999/112 call received at 14.00 hours on 6 May 2013 was managed. A preliminary report has been requested as a matter of urgency and this will be followed by a full report. The NAS has appointed a Liaison Officer to the family to keep them informed of progress and the outcome of the review. It would be inappropriate to make any further comment, pending the outcome of the review.
