HSE investigates deaths and birth-related brain injuries of nearly 500 babies in four years

Some of the 488 cases are defined as 'serious incidents' that 'may result in death or serious harm' while others are 'serious incidents' which need to be examined to determine if 'safety was compromised'. File picture

The HSE has carried out reviews into almost 500 baby deaths and birth-related brain injuries over the past four years.

A large number of the reviews (247) focused on stillborn babies, or those who died within a week of being born, between 2020 and 2023. The deaths of a further 241 babies, who either died within a month of birth or who survived but suffered brain dysfunction, were also investigated.