Reilly rejects claims of U-turn on inquiry plan

Health Minister James Reilly has described the Health Information Quality Authority decision to launch a second, separate investigation into Savita Halappanavar’s death as a “really positive” move.

Rejecting claims the step is a Government U-turn on its initial plan to keep any inquiry within the HSE, the under-fire cabinet member told reporters in Galway that Hiqa will add “an extra dimension” to the case.

The independent state health watchdog — which is known for not shying away from difficult investigation conclusions — yesterday confirmed it is examining the “quality and standards” of Savita’s treatment at Galway University Hospital between Oct 21 and Oct 28.