Mother at centre of probe defends midwife’s actions

A mother who is at the centre of a HSE investigation into prominent midwife Philomena Canning has come out strongly in favour of Ms Canning, saying that she was "very professional and careful and strictly followed the rules given by the HSE".

Ms Canning, who is one of the leading midwives in the practice of home births, has had her insurance indemnity withdrawn by the HSE while it investigates the circumstances surrounding complications in two deliveries earlier this year, one of which involved Hana Rydl.

However, Ms Rydl, whose son was born last April, was only formally contacted about the matter by the HSE last Monday.

Ms Canning’s cover has been cancelled since September 12, and her supporters maintain that any investigation should have been completed months ago, without any requirement to suspend her cover.

The campaign launched by Ms Canning’s supporters, includes a petition of more than 3,000 signatories, demanding that Minister for Health Leo Varadkar intervene in the case.

Around 25 expectant mothers had booked Ms Canning for the coming months, but all have now been told by the HSE to find other midwives.

Hana Rydl has joined the campaign, and accused the HSE of using her in bringing a case against Ms Canning. “This is a very shocking and traumatic situation for me and it happened without approval and I strongly disagree with it,” she said.

“I felt I was in the best hands with Philomena Canning. She was very professional, careful and strictly followed the rules given by the HSE. There was not a moment I would feel in danger when I was with her.”

Ms Rydl was among a group of supporters of the midwife who handed in a petition to Mr Varadkar’s private secretary at the gates of Leinster House yesterday, asking him to intervene in the matter.

Last month, the High Court refused an application for an injunction by Ms Canning, to prevent the HSE from withdrawing her cover, on the basis that she hadn’t proved that damages wouldn’t be a sufficient remedy if she wins when the case comes to a full hearing.

Mr Varadkar issued a response to the campaign, saying that he had no role in the matter and, “it would be inappropriate for me to intervene regardless of political pressure of lobbying.”