Parents of baby who died at Midlands hospital seek inquiry
The parents of a baby boy who died 22 minutes after his birth at the Midland Regional Hospital in Portlaoise two years ago will today lobby TDs for an independent inquiry.
Mark and Roisín Molloy will ask for an independent HIQA inquiry into the death of baby Mark in January 2012.
On his way into Dáil Éireann this morning, the Taoiseach indicated the health watchdog HIQA may be asked to carry out an inquiry into the deaths of a number of babies at the hospital.
Enda Kenny said he will be briefed by the Health Minister on the matter this morning, but suggested an independent inquiry could be on the cards, calling on "decisiveness and clarity" on the safety of the Irish maternity system.
Meanwhile the Oireachtas Health Committee will hold a special meeting to discuss the policy problems highlighted by his death, and the deaths of other infants.
"Given the gravity of the situation and the inadequate response to initial reports and recommendations, I've called a meeting of [the committee]," Chairman Jerry Buttimer said.
"Members will be able to consider an appropriate response by the committee, and how best we can address the policy issues that arise."
