Care home death inquiry chief resigns

A SENIOR health manager who was leading a probe into the unexpected death of a woman at a nursing home has stepped aside to avoid a potential conflict of interests.

Former Southern Health Board programme manager Tom O’Dwyer was appointed to chair a committee enquiring into the death of Hannah Comber at Heatherside Hospital, near Buttevant, Co Cork, on June 22.

Ms Comber, 65, suffocated after becoming entangled in straps binding her to a special chair.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) appointed Mr O’Dwyer chairperson of a committee to enquire into the circumstances of her death, which is also the subject of a separate garda investigation.

But the Irish Nurses Organisation raised concerns about his appointment, given his previous role at the hospital.

In his previous capacity as programme manager, he had overall responsibility for running the hospital where Ms Comber was a long-term resident.

Mr O’Dwyer announced his decision to step down on Friday. He said the HSE investigation would be best served if he stepped aside.

He has been replaced by Pat Gaughan, a former chief officer of the Midland Health Board. He has 29 years of experience in health services management, which includes six years as director of human resources and five years as assistant chief executive with responsibility for acute hospitals and mental health services in the former North Western Health Board.

The HSE South said it regretted but respected Mr O’Dwyer’s decision.

“The HSE appreciates Mr O’Dwyer’s commitment and his assistance,” a statement said.

A spokesperson said it was committed to “transparent processes in the investigation of adverse incidents”.

It also reiterated its full confidence in the “integrity, competence and independence of the investigation committee” whose other members include south Tipperary consultant in old-age psychiatry Dr Catriona Crowe and Laois/Offaly mental health service director of nursing PJ Lawlor.

“The HSE expects full engagement and cooperation from all staff and representative organisations in this investigation to ensure transparency and to give the public full confidence in the quality and safety of the services we provide,” a spokesperson said.