The Government has appointed facilitators to begin work toward establishing two public statutory inquiries. One inquiry will focus on scoliosis and spina bifida care at Children’s Health Ireland, and the other will investigate the sexual abuse carried out by former hospital consultant Michael Shine in Drogheda.
Facilitators Appointed
Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill announced the appointments. Senior Counsel Remy Farrell will facilitate the inquiry into care at Children’s Health Ireland. Senior Counsel Lorcan Staines will facilitate the inquiry into the abuse perpetrated by Michael Shine.
Both facilitators are expected to begin their work next week. Minister McNeill stated that those who requested the inquiries had expressed a desire to participate in drafting their terms.
Impact of Feedback
According to Minister McNeill, a period of feedback from those impacted is valuable. She stated, “It’s better to have even a short period of real feedback from the people who have been impacted, so that they can be sure that they have influenced in the best way possible what they think needs to be involved.”
Minister McNeill as well emphasized the importance of reviewing existing documentation to create a “tighter, much more impactful inquiry.” While the final decision to establish the inquiries rests with the Government, she expressed hope that ministers will be able to move forward with the plans this year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who will be leading the inquiries?
Senior Counsel Remy Farrell will lead the inquiry into scoliosis and spina bifida care at Children’s Health Ireland, and Senior Counsel Lorcan Staines will lead the inquiry into the abuse carried out by Michael Shine.
How long will the facilitators be engaging with stakeholders?
The facilitators are expected to engage with survivors, patients, and parents over a 16-week period.
What is the Government’s role in establishing the inquiries?
the decision to establish the inquiries rests with the Government, though Minister Carroll MacNeill expressed hope that ministers could move forward with plans to do so this year.
What impact will these inquiries have on future healthcare practices and safeguarding measures?
