Statement on the publication of the Independent Investigation into the events surrounding the death of Aoife Johnston

"My thoughts today are with Aoife’s family. I know that each day is difficult for them as they deal with the devastating loss of their beloved daughter and sister. Their grief has been compounded by the circumstances, and failings, that led to her untimely death.

“I welcome the publication of this report and thank Mr Frank Clarke for his detailed independent investigation.

“Work is now underway in the HSE to implement Mr Clarke’s recommendations and to build on the improvements already made at UHL since 2022, as acknowledged in Mr Clarke’s report.

“The Report identifies a number of factors that contributed to delayed treatment and Aoife’s death, including unclear protocols, ad hoc systems, poor internal communication and a failure to deploy the escalation protocol.

“The Report also highlights the particularly severe pressures that night in the Emergency Department. HIQA has been asked to lead a review into urgent and emergency care capacity in the Midwest region, including to determine whether a second Emergency Department is required.

“Implementation of Mr Clarke’s recommendations, as well as the actions and changes recommended by the HSE expert clinical review also published today, are important for the patients of the Midwest, as well as the staff in UHL, to rebuild confidence in the safety and quality of the care and services provided there."