Couple sue over death of baby two days after birth at Cork hospital

A couple from Cork has filed a lawsuit against the Health Service Executive (HSE) following the death of their newborn son, George Duggan, who passed away two days after his birth at Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUMH). The case was heard in the High Court, where the parents allege that inadequate medical oversight contributed to the child's tragic demise. George Duggan was born on December 19, 2022, via caesarean section at 29 weeks and three days. His death occurred on December 21, 2022, while in the arms of his parents. A funeral was held on Christmas Eve. In a letter to the Duggans, read in court, CUMH acknowledged its failure to conduct more frequent fetal monitoring after a review and ultrasound scan on December 8, 2022. The hospital expressed sincere apologies for this lapse, though it maintained that it did not cause the infant's death. The HSE admitted to breaching its duty of care by not providing more frequent fetal monitoring following the December 8th scan. According to the parents' solicitors, the Duggans were concerned about fetal movement during the scan, yet they were reassured there was no issue. They were scheduled for a follow-up appointment on December 22. Patrick Treacy, representing the parents, argued that if the hospital had detected issues with blood flow, continuous monitoring would have been initiated, preventing the subsequent complications. Legal representatives for the Duggans claim that proper and continuous assessment after the December 8th review might have led to an earlier caesarean section before the mother’s waters broke on December 19. This, they argue, could have resulted in a safer delivery and potentially saved the baby’s life. The baby suffered severe trauma, including bruising and subgaleal haemorrhage during the caesarean section. The parents’ case focuses on the 11-day period between the December 8th review and the baby’s birth, asserting that adequate monitoring during this time could have changed the outcome. Dr. Mairead O’Riordan, clinical director of CUMH Ireland South Women and Infants Directorate, issued a heartfelt apology in a letter to the Duggans. She expressed deep condolences and emphasized the hospital’s ongoing efforts to improve patient safety and care. The letter noted the emotional toll on the family and affirmed the institution’s commitment to learning from such incidents. During the legal proceedings, the court heard claims that the hospital failed to expedite a caesarean section prior to the rupture of the membranes on December 19. It was also alleged that timely investigations or surveillance following the December 8th review could have identified worsening placental function, leading to earlier admission. The case was adjourned when the judge revealed that one of the witnesses was known to her, making it impossible for her to continue hearing the case. The court rescheduled the hearing for the next legal term in October. Judge Leonie Reynolds expressed sympathy for the Duggans and acknowledged the profound grief associated with losing their firstborn. The case continues to unfold, with both parties awaiting further developments in the legal process.