Vol. 572 No. 6
288 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on whether it is right, after such a serious incident taking place in a hospital (details supplied), that the hospital should be investigating itself; if he will appoint a fully independent outside person to investigate this; and the reason the hospital should investigate itself when there is a need for an independent investigation. [23968/03]
I have already advised the Deputy of the position in relation to this case on both 30 September and 9 October last.
At this point I do not consider that there is a need for a separate investigation into this case. My Department is advised that two of the three members of the critical incident review team, established to investigate this incident, are not employed by the hospital or health board concerned.
As I indicated to the Deputy previously, the health board has offered to meet with the family of the deceased patient to discuss a number of matters raised by the family arising from the draft report of the review team. My Department is advised by the board that a response is awaited from the family.
