Widower Calls For Public Inquiry Into Death Of Savita Halappanavar

The husband of Indian dentist Savita Halappanavar is calling for a public inquiry into her death.

Ms Halappanavar died following a miscarriage at Galway University Hospital on 28th October.

Speaking on RTÉ's Today with Pat Kenny, Gerard O'Donnell the family solicitor said: "Any inquiry conducted by the HSE does not meet with his approval. He has no faith in the HSE.

"It's important to remember that he lost his wife while under the care of the HSE."

Her husband, Praveen Halappanavar said he has no faith in the HSE.

Mr O'Donnell continued: "He (Praveen) feels that anybody who is appointed by the HSE or paid for by the HSE to conduct an inquiry into his wife's death won't meet the criteria that we would advise him as lawyers of getting to the truth."

Mr Halappanavar said he wants a fully independent inquiry so that the truth will come out.

Through his solicitor, he plans to request that people from Galway Hospital are not on the inquiry team.

Speaking at the press conference yesterday, Dr Crowley expressed condolences on behalf of the HSE to Ms Halappanavar’s family and friends for their tragic loss.

He said: “Our thoughts are with Ms Halappanavar’s family and friends at this difficult time. It is important that we ascertain the full facts of what occurred in this case and take all necessary steps that may be needed to be taken to prevent or minimise the risk of a similar incident occurring again. 

"To do this we have an Investigation Team comprising of leading experts with vast experience across the range of clinical disciplines relevant to this tragic case. Under the Chairmanship of Sir Arulkumaran, we will have a thorough, independent, and expeditious review of the facts surrounding the tragic death of Ms Halappanavar.

"We must now give the Investigation Team the time and support they require to conduct their inquiries before drawing any conclusions."

(CD)