Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 July 2026
155. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health the progress made towards the establishment of a public inquiry into failures and scandals at Children’s Health Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52160/26]
View answerI appointed Mr Remy Farrell, Senior Counsel as the independent facilitator for the Children’s Health Ireland Inquiry into Spina Bifida and Complex Scoliosis Services Scoping Exercise. I remain committed to supporting the facilitation process and encourage all stakeholders to engage fully with the facilitator as his work continues.
The scoping exercise is considering existing information, consulting with stakeholders, seeking to avoid duplication with other relevant reports or statutory processes and will make recommendations regarding the scope, breadth and format of an inquiry and the content of potential terms of reference.
Work commenced on Tuesday 3 March 2026 initially running for up to 16 weeks. The facilitator wrote to me last week requesting an extension to conduct his scoping exercise, in particular, to attempt to further reengage with stakeholders. I granted this request until 18th August. The facilitator has engaged with a number of patient advocate groups, CHI and HSE management, and the Department of Health.
Once the scoping exercise is complete, further Government approval will be sought for the final terms of reference. The inquiry will form a part of the wider reflection on paediatric services in CHI.
