HSE investigate 30 baby deaths at Irish hospitals

The HSE is investigating the deaths of 30 babies at Irish hospitals, it has been revealed.

An investigation was launched after a number of babies died at the Midlands Regional Hospital in Portlaoise.

A HSE panel reviewing child birth complaints in Irish hospitals was set up last year, following revelations of poor care standards at the Midlands Hospital in Portlaoise.

The Sunday Independent has reported that the panel examined 80 baby deaths, and decided that 30 of these needed further investigation.

This figure could increase as more cases are reviewed, however.

Separately, a review of maternity services at Portiuncula Hospital in Galway announced last week following the deaths of two babies is set to be expanded.

It comes after a further five families came forward to say that their babies died or were left starved of oxygen.