New probe into theft of patient files

GARDAÍ have confirmed a new investigation into the theft of patient files from a Drogheda maternity hospital is to begin shortly.

A decision to re-open the investigation was made following the publication this week of a report into why the hospital’s Caesarean hysterectomy rate was so high between 1974 and 1998.

During the inquiry, it emerged nearly one-quarter of childbirth-related hysterecomy files could not be found by the inquiry team and are believed to have been stolen. In her report, Judge Harding Clark stated she believed the files were taken deliberately to protect those involved in the hysterectomies or to protect the hospital’s reputation.

She believed the culprit had a good knowledge of where relevant files would be stored and had the authority to consult them.

This is the second such criminal investigation into events at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital during the late 1990s. A previous file prepared by the gardaí on the disappearance of 44 patient files was sent to the DPP but no prosecutions followed. It is believed the DPP decision was based on grounds of insufficient evidence.

Gardaí will examine the report in its entirety and check for any fresh evidence regarding any possible criminal offence.

The Garda Commissioner will determine what garda unit will carry out the examination. The previous investigation was carried out by the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (NBCI) in conjunction with local detectives.

It is understood the NBCI has not yet taken any statements from any of the women whose wombs were removed unnecessarily but is likely to do so. It is believed many of these women will allege criminal assault.

“A number of women have intimated their intentions to make statements,” a garda source said.

Meanwhile, gardaí in Bridewell Garda Station in Dublin are investigating three break-ins at the offices of Judge Harding Clark.

It is understood no medical files were taken and the burglaries might not be connected with the judge’s investigations.