Caution urged over controversy

If the fall-out from the tragic circumstances of Savita Halappanavar’s death at Galway University Hospital proves anything at this point in time it is that to comment (or worse still, make up one’s mind fully) definitively on any subject without having the full facts from both sides of any subject is both very unwise not to say foolish.

At the moment it’s quite obvious that some people have been (quite understandably, I concede) affected in a very personal manner with this very sad death. There are, I also concede, grounds for demanding that the Government should put immediate (but very carefully thought out) steps in place to address the legal aspects of the X case into legislation.

But putting that aspect (and emotions) aside for the moment, would it be too much to ask all to refrain from coming to a definitive opinion without having heard both sides of this story in relation to the specifics of the recent tragic death in UCH before making a definitive judgement?

The present undoubted high level of emotions being expressed by many reminds one of the days that followed the death of Princess Diana which, on reflection in the cold light of day, were seen by many to be indicative of an over-reaction (again understandable) by many back then.

On a personal note, a brother of mine passed away at UCH some years ago and I can personally vouch that the medical treatment and overall care he received was second to none. Surely a little bit of overall balance of restrained comment on the present recent sad happenings at that hospital is the least people should adhere to?

If, in the fullness of time, that institution is found in any manner medically (or otherwise) negligent, then there is a ready remedy available in the courts of this Republic.

Kevin McCarthy

4 High Meadows

Goudavoher

Co Limerick