)
Introduction
A recent review by the State Claims Agency (“SCA”) has revealed disturbing failings in Ireland’s maternity services that have resulted in tragic consequences, including five deaths, life-altering injuries to 80 babies and an estimated €320 million cost to the State in compensation.
The findings highlight significant failures in fetal heart rate monitoring, CTG trace interpretation and the use of labour-inducing methods in maternity care.
Key Findings
Between 2015 and 2019, the SCA reviewed claims related to catastrophic birth injuries, many of which were linked to preventable errors during labour. Key findings include:
Inadequate Monitoring of Fetal Heart Rates in over 50% of cases reviewed.
Failure to Interpret Abnormal CTG Trace results in more than 60% of the claims.
Delayed Delivery in 77% of cases, leading to preventable injuries.
The Misuse of Oxytocin, a synthetic hormone used to induce labour, in 36% of claims.
Accelerated Labour Methods, such as oxytocin administration and artificial rupture of membranes, were involved in 43% of cases.
Concern about Ireland’s Maternity Services
These failures echo long-standing concerns about Ireland’s maternity services, which have been raised in multiple reviews, including the tragic death of Savita Halappanavar in 2012 and the Portlaoise baby deaths scandal. Despite earlier reports and recommendations, such as those from the Health Information and Quality Authority (“HIQA”) and the Health Service Executive (“HSE”), similar issues continue to plague the system.
Need for Systemic Reform
The SCA’s review underscores the urgent need for systemic reform in maternity services. Advocacy groups, such as Safer Births Ireland, have called for a comprehensive inquiry into the recurring problems within the system and are demanding immediate changes to prevent further harm.
The financial burden of these catastrophic injuries is significant, with outstanding clinical injury claims reaching over €3 billion in 2023.
Conclusion
The SCA review emphasises the physical, emotional and financial toll that birth injuries exact on families and the State.
In light of these findings, law firms specialising in personal injury and medical negligence have a crucial role to play in helping affected families seek justice and compensation. If you or a loved one has been impacted by birth injuries, it is important to consult with an experienced solicitor to explore your legal options.
Further Information
For further details or if you have any concerns about your child’s birth, please contact Avril Scally, Partner or Avril Carroll, Solicitor in our award-winning Medical Negligence & Personal Injury Team.