Maternal death inquiry at Holles Street
Deputy Micheál Martin raised the tragic death of Mrs. Malak Thawley and argued for an external independent investigation rather than an opaque internal review. The Taoiseach offered condolences and said the inquest was independent, while Martin pressed for a meeting with Mr. Thawley and a full external inquiry.
The programme for Government makes clear commitments to patient safety. We are aware of the very tragic death of Mrs. Malak Thawley. Her husband Alan has been devastated and has called for an independent investigation into her untimely death. She had a blood vessel accidentally severed during routine surgery she was undergoing following an ectopic pregnancy. The coroner's inquest left many questions to be answered. He was denied access to medical records; phone logs; the full names, qualifications and expertise of the doctors and consultants involved in his late wife's care; the identity of other hospitals involved; statements, minutes of meetings etc.; Garda information; and feedback.
I am sure the Taoiseach is aware of the list of issues. There was no blood in the laboratory, not enough blood in the theatre and so on.
Comment on this
If this happened in a regional hospital such as Portlaoise or Portiuncula University Hospital, an independent inquiry would take place. However, this has happened in Holles Street in a national hospital and people seem to be satisfied with an internal investigation, which at best has been opaque and has not been fully transparent with the family of the deceased.
Comment on this
I ask for the Minister, Deputy Harris, to meet Mr. Alan Thawley and for an external independent investigation to be conducted into the case. What occurred was appalling.
Comment on this
I obviously join others in expressing my condolences to Mr. Thawley, his family and anybody who has been affected by this tragic loss. A maternal death is always a very sad and tragic event. I know in all cases people do everything they can to avoid them happening. I express my condolences and deep sorrow to the family.
As the Deputy said, an inquest was carried out. Inquests by their nature are independent. It follows a court-type process where evidence is given. People, including doctors, are called to the stand and are asked questions. Therefore, an inquest is an independent inquiry and provides some answers. In addition to that, an independent or external case review could also be carried out. It is not that one contradicts the other. I know that the Minister, Deputy Harris, said he would reflect on the request.