Hospital ‘sorry’ over boy’s brain birth injury

South Tipperary General Hospital has unreservedly apologised in the High Court to a 15-year-old boy for the failings that occurred at the time of his birth.

The apology was made as Mr Justice Kevin Cross approved an interim settlement of €2m for the boy who has dyskinetic cerebral palsy.

An application was made in court that the boy’s identity not be published.

A statement by South Tipperary General Hospital general manager Maria Barry was read to the court.

In it, Ms Barry said: “ On behalf of South Tipperary General Hospital, I wish to express our sincere and unreserved apologies for the failings that caused the injuries and the consequential trauma experienced by the boy and his family.”

He had through his mother sued the HSE over the circumstances of his birth at St Joseph’s County Medical and Maternity Hospital, Clonmel, Tipperary on October 16, 2001.

Counsel Michael Counihan said in September of this year liability was admitted. He said the boy had his first heartbeat nine minutes after birth but is now doing magnificently well and attends a special school.

The boy’s mother told the court the apology was priceless to her.

Mr Justice Kevin Cross said the apology will be a comfort to the family.