British expert to probe teen death case

A BRITISH-based professor of social work has been appointed to determine if the Health Service Executive (HSE) failed in its duty of care to a teenager who died after inhaling aerosols.

Dr Harry Ferguson, professor in social policy and social work with the Bristol University, will review the case of 14-year-old Michelle Bray from Co Waterford.

The young girl died on January 21 last after inhaling gases from a deodorant can near her home at 47 Childers Estate, Dungarvan, Co Waterford.

She was pronounced dead at the scene by a doctor after efforts to revive her failed.

Yesterday the HSE announced Dr Ferguson will undertake an “independent, external review of HSE service provision to the late Michelle Bray”.

The terms of reference include:

nA review by Dr Ferguson of the HSE’s involvement in the case. He will prepare a report with such recommendations as may arise.

nDr Ferguson will have access to all files, records and expertise as required.

nDr Ferguson will determine the timeframe for completion of the review.

“However, the report should be completed at the earliest possible opportunity,” a statement from the HSE said.

Yesterday, Paddy Gordon, solicitor for the family of the late Ms Bray, said they welcomed Dr Ferguson’s appointment. “Certainly, we will be co-operating with this inquiry,” Mr Gordon said.

Controversy surrounding the manner in which Ms Bray died erupted three days after her burial when Fine Gael TD John Deasy claimed he had written to the HSE in 2005 warning Ms Bray was a danger to herself and others.

Mr Deasy’s involvement was on foot of concerns for Ms Bray’s welfare raised with him by a social worker. The HSE claims it did act on the warnings from Mr Deasy and that at no time was residential care ruled out.

Ms Bray had come to the attention of gardaí in the three years prior to her death. In 2004 a decision was made to find her a residential care place for her own safety but this was not acted upon.

The HSE said in 2005 matters settled down considerably and a decision was then taken to keep Ms Bray with her family.

The outcry surrounding her death prompted Health Minister Mary Harney and Children’s Minister Brian Lenihan to request an inquiry.

Yesterday Mr Deasy welcomed the appointment of Dr Ferguson to carry out the inquiry, but said there was also a need to take a broader look at “systemic failures” throughout the childcare system.

“Vulnerable children are falling through the cracks. Gardaí, health officials, the Department of Education and local authorities need to come up with a joint approach,” Mr Deasy said.