Liz O'Donnell
Ceist:53 Ms O'Donnell asked the Minister for Health if he will carry out an inquiry into the handling of the Kelly Fitzgerald case by the Western Health Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9468/95]
Written Answers. - Western Health Board Case Inquiry.
Limerick East): Following the completion of the inquest in London into the death of the late Kelly Fitzgerald, the Chief Executive Officer of the Western Health Board has appointed an independent team to examine the Western Health Board's involvement with the child and her family.
The inquiry team is chaired by Mr. Owen Keenan, Director/Secretary of Barnardos, the voluntary child care agency. The other members are: Ms Mary Finucane, former Superintendent Public Health Nurse with the Mid-Western Health Board and Ms Siobhan Keogh, Child Care Development Officer with the Midland Health Board.
The full terms of reference of the inquiry team are:
(a) To inquire into the circumstances of the late Kelly Fitzgerald and her family and, having regard thereto, to examine the Western Health Board's child protection practices and procedures and to make such recommendations as are deemed necessary.
(b) To make such other recommendations as are considered relevant.
(c) To report to the Chief Executive Officer of the Board in the matter as soon as possible for presentation by him to the board.
The team has commenced its deliberations and has been asked to finalise its report as soon as possible.