SF calls for publication of HSE review into awarding of consultancy contract

Sinn Féin has called on the Government to publish the findings of a HSE review into how a private consultancy, part-owned by the chairman of a regional hospital group, was awarded a contract to review maternity services in the area. Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams also called on Minister for Health James Reilly to make a statement to the Dáil.

Noel Daly, chairman of the West-NorthWest Hospital Group, resigned late on Wednesday, saying he did not want his personal and professional reputation or the reputation of the group to be compromised in any way.

Last month, a review by the HSE audit unit found that the appointment of D&F Health Partnership to review local maternity services in the west and northwest breached HSE financial regulations. Mr Daly had stepped back from involvement in the consultancy but still held a 50 per cent stake.

Bill Maher, chief executive of the hospital group, said he learned of Mr Daly’s decision to resign “with deep regret”. “On behalf of the group, I wish to take this opportunity to thank Noel for his unstinting hard work and support over the past two years.”

In a statement, Mr Daly said he took on the voluntary role of chairman two years ago and had been happy to serve in furthering significant improvements in the health services. “The board and the executive are doing wonderful work with the support of the HSE and the Minister and his department and I wish them continued success in their endeavours.”

Both Mr Daly and Mr Maher declined to make any further comment.

As reported in The Irish Times in April, the report by D&F Health Partnership recommended major cuts to maternity services in the west and northwest.

A spokesman for Dr Reilly yesterday referred to the Minister’s comments in the Seanad last month, when he said that a review by the HSE found the procurement of services from the consultancy was not in accordance with financial regulations. He said HSE director general Tony O’Brien had written to the hospital group outlining his concerns and seeking to ensure the recommendations in the review were implemented.