Doctor's 'slap on the wrist' for delay in attending woman who died in childbirth 'disappointing'

Dr McMurray had delayed his return to hospital while on-call to attend Tracey Campbell Fitzpatrick who suffered a fatal haemorrhage within three hours of giving birth

Front L-R: Bernard Fitzpatrick (husband) with James and Pauline Campbell, Parents of the late Tracey Campbell Fitzpatrick of Nurney, Co. Carlow, pictured speaking to the media on leaving the Four Courts yesterday(Wed) after a High Court action. Pic: Collins Courts

The family of a young woman who bled to death shortly after giving birth in the maternity unit at St Luke’s General Hospital in Kilkenny seven years ago has expressed dismay at the “lenient” sanction imposed on the consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist responsible for her care who was found guilty of professional misconduct earlier this year.

The High Court confirmed on Monday the decision of the Medical Council to censure the consultant, David McMurray, in writing with several conditions to be attached to his continued practice.