Fianna Fáil Health Spokesperson, Billy Kelleher has said that he is alarmed at the time taken for the HSE to begin an investigation into concerns over faulty foetal monitors, and has called for the Minister for Health to make a statement to Dáil Éireann on the matter.
“Concerns were raised by the manufacture back in 2009 and hospitals were warned to put corrective action in place as there was ‘potential to cause injury or death to mothers and babies.’
“11 Irish hospitals were using this device at the time, and continued to use this device for a number of years following the produce recall.
“We need to know why it has taken nine years since the initial product recall, and a further four years since the reporting of the deaths of five babies at Portlaoise Hospital, for the HSE to begin an investigation into the use of these foetal monitors.
“Minister Harris needs to come into the Dáil tomorrow and explain what has happened, why it was allowed to happen, and provide members of the Dáil Éireann with a plan to ensure that the lives of women and their babies are kept safe during birth.
“There can be no further delays in getting to the bottom of this issue. The Minister must direct that this review concludes as quickly as possible, as any mistakes must be learned from if we are to avoid a repeat in the future,” concluded Kelleher.
