HSE publishes draft terms of reference for investigation

The HSE has published the draft terms of reference for its investigation into the death of Savita Halappanavar.

In a statement this evening, it has also announced the three new members of the inquiry panel.

The Health Minister said that he has requested an interim report into the circumstances of Ms Halappanavar's death before Christmas.

According to the draft terms of reference released by the HSE, the inquiry will work to establish the 'factual circumstances' leading up to Ms Halappanavar's death - identifying any causal and contributory factors - and recommend actions to reduce or eliminate the risk of any future harm arising from those factors.

It will also be able to call upon the assistance of all relevant staff and personnel - and have access to any relevant files and records.

The three new members of the panel investigating Ms Halappanavar's death have also been announced.

They include British obstetrics and gynaecology expert Professor James Walker, Dr. Brian Marsh of the Mater Hospital in Dublin - and Professor Mary Horgan of Cork University Hospital.

The Health Minister said that he wants the inquiry to produce an interim report by Christmas.

James Reilly said that the investigation must go ahead - despite Savita's husband's decision not to co-operate with the team.