Inquest into Savita’s death to begin today

The husband of Savita Halappanavar is expected to be the main witness when the inquest into her death gets under way in Galway today.

The hearing being conducted by West Galway coroner Ciaran MacLoughlin will be the first occasion for Praveen Halappanavar to outline in detail the circumstances leading up to his pregnant wife’s death at Galway University Hospital on Oct 28.

It will also provide the first opportunity for legal representatives of the hospital and medical staff to question him on his version of the events surrounding the tragic loss of his wife and unborn baby.

Mr Halappanavar has insisted that Ms Halappanavar, aged 31, had repeatedly requested a termination, but that this was refused.

The HSE report into her death, which was delivered to Mr Halappanavar’s solicitor, Gerard O’Donnell, is said to have left him unhappy and upset.

Mr O’Donnell said the report contained just a single reference to his wife’s request for a termination, but his client had consistently maintained that there were three such requests.

Mr Halappanavar has now made a lengthy deposition which will be read to today’s inquest.

The hearing cannot exonerate or apportion blame to anybody over Ms Halappanavar’s death — it is simply charged with establishing the facts and, in certain circumstances, making a recommendation to better protect the public in future.

The quality of care given to Ms Halappanavar in the days leading up to her death will form a central part of this week’s inquest.

One aspect being investigated is that the radiator in her room did not work and, as a result, her shivering may have been misinterpreted as Ms Halappanavar being cold rather than displaying a sign of infection.

It is also believed that the HSE will be in a position to clarify the use of the phrase “Ireland is a Catholic county”, which Mr Halappanavar alleges was used as a reason why his wife was not given the termination she requested.

There could be up to 50 witnesses at the inquest, with space at a premium in the restricted courtroom at the Galway courthouse designated for the event. However, it is believed that fewer than 18 may be called to give evidence.

As well as 48 members of staff at Galway University Hospital who have made statements, a number of independent medical specialists are expected to be called.

There will also be a large media and legal presence, as well as the members of the inquest jury.

In addition, members of the public are entitled to attend.

At a preliminary inquest hearing in January, barrister John O’Donnell, for Mr Halappanavar, indicated that the services of a stenographer would be required.

On that occasion, the coroner requested both sides to come to an agreement over the number of witnesses to be called.

The inquest is expected to run for several days.