Inquiry to assess spina bifida, scoliosis care at CHI

The parents of Harvey Morrison have said there will be an inquiry into the care of spina bifida and scoliosis patients at Children’s Health Ireland.

Stephen Morrison and Gillian Sherratt met with Tánaiste Simon Harris and Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeil today to discuss a number of issues including their son’s care and concerns over long waiting lists.

In a joint statement with the Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Paediatric Advocacy Group and the Scoliosis Advocacy Network, Harvey’s parents said the Tánaiste and the Minister committed to an inquiry.

The terms of reference for the inquiry are to be drawn up by parental advocacy groups in collaboration with the Department of Health and the Tánaiste, the statement said.

“A follow up meeting will occur in three weeks time. We hope this inquiry is the start of real substantial, long lasting change and brings justice for Harvey,” the statement concluded.

Harvey Morrison died in July of this year and was on a waiting list for urgent surgery for almost three years before the surgery went ahead last November.