Final report on HSE Savita inquiry in coming weeks

Chief Operating Officer of the Galway Roscommon Hospital Group Tony Canavan says while a date is not yet confirmed, the independent chairman Professor Sir Alrulkumaran is working on the final stages with his review team.

Addressing last evening’s meeting of the Regional Health Forum West, Mr Canavan said the review team met with Mr. Halappanavar’s representatives earlier this month and has since received their submission in writing.

It followed a query from Forum Chairperson Cllr Padraig Connelly who also asked if the recommendations made by the coroner had been implemented.

Members were advised that significant measures had been taken in advance of the inquest.

Mr Canavan said that many of the coroner’s recommendations were applied at a national level and that when guidance is available, it is the intention to take on board all three sets of recommendations.

Forum Chairperson Cllr Padraig Conneely said the recommendations should be implemented straight away and questioned the delay in the final report.

He added that free legal aid should be available for those who have a grievance with a public hospital.