Media Statement from Children’s Health Ireland
Media Statement from Children’s Health Ireland
June 3, 2025
All CHI locations
News
The examination in question was conducted at the end of 2021 (report was finalised January 2022) in response to concerns and issues raised. The recommendations have been implemented and are ongoing. The issues have been addressed and the team in question are working well. This is an example of taking action when issues are identified in line with good HR practice.
Work on CHI’s culture is ongoing, as should be expected when you look at international examples of transformation programmes of this nature. There has been immense change underway across all CHI sites for the last number of years, with the merging of teams, processes, policies, practices and cultures.
There has been inaccurate media reporting in relation to NTPF payments to a Consultant. CHI can confirm that these clinics did not take place in the Consultant’s private rooms. They occurred in a public clinic, in one of its hospitals, on a Saturday. It was a waiting list initiative for an outpatient appointment only. The NTPF funded the hospital for this waiting list initiative and there was no charge to patients. This was over and above the Consultant’s contractual hours. There are no direct payments to CHI staff from NTPF.
A longer-term sustainable solution for referral management and central referrals system for all services has been put in place in CHI and is in operation. The roll out of this system is ongoing and all services will be on this central referral systems in the coming months.
We acknowledge and take very seriously the findings of recent clinical reports, and historical internal examinations or reports. CHI considered the request to publish this report and sought legal advice, however, it is primarily a HR report where the confidentiality of those who participated and fair procedures need to be respected given the sensitive nature of the report.
CHI’s Board and Executive team are committed to the transformation programme underway and wish to assure the public of their commitment to provide quality care, open and transparent communication and a ‘one team’ approach, across all CHI services.
Lucy Nugent, Chief Executive of Children’s Health Ireland, said:
“In recent days, there has been significant public commentary regarding Children’s Health Ireland (CHI). I want to be clear that my priority as CEO is — and always has been — the operational governance of our organisation, positive experiences and outcomes for our children and young people as well as the ongoing support of our dedicated staff, who work tirelessly every day to care for children and young people."
“We take our accountability to the public and the families we serve extremely seriously. At the same time, I must emphasise that our staff across CHI continue to deliver extraordinary care under challenging conditions."
“We are committed to learning, improving, and ensuring that every child who comes through our doors receives the highest standard of care."
“Our patients and their families are at the heart of everything we do. That must remain the central focus.”