Rotunda Hospital apologises for ‘failings’ in care at time of boy’s birth

The Rotunda Hospital has apologised in the High Court for “shortcomings and failings” in care surrounding the birth of a boy more than a decade ago.

Cian O’Connor, from Glasnevin, Dublin, has a learning disability and motor coordination issues because of injuries allegedly sustained during his birth in 2008, the court heard.

The 13-year-old has settled his legal action against the Dublin hospital for an interim sum of €3.7 million, which covers the period until 2032.

A letter on behalf of the hospital management and staff was read out in court, apologising for the “shortcomings and failings in care provided to Cian”.

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“We do not underestimate how difficult this has been for your family and the challenge you and your family have faced as a result of these shortcomings and failings,” it says.

Cian’s mother Deirdre O’Connor told the court she appreciated the apology but was “saddened it took so long to get”.

Through his mother, Cian, with an address in Ballygall, Dublin 11, sued the Rotunda, of Parnell Street, Dublin 1, over the care received around the time of his birth on October 18th, 2008.

Bruce Antoniotti SC, for Cian, said his side was “very happy” with the figure and the terms of the agreement. It was appropriate that the settlement covered a 10-year period, he said, as it was a “fluctuating situation” and “difficult to predict” Cian’s future needs.

Behavioural issues

Mr Antoniotti said the primary problems Cian faces are his learning difficulties and some behavioural issues. He has dyspraxia and a short attention span and becomes easily frustrated with his abilities, he said. Cian will require long-term speech and language therapy, counsel added.

The court heard that, following his birth, Cian suffered neonatal seizures and there was evidence of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, a type of brain dysfunction that occurs when the brain is deprived of oxygen or blood flow.

Upon discharge from the hospital 12 days after his birth, it did not seem that he had suffered significant injuries, said Mr Antoniotti. He did not suffer a seizure again until the age of seven and, as time progressed, it became clear Cian had a learning disability and had some motor coordination issues, the court heard.

It was claimed that Ms O’Connor was given the labour hormone oxytocin when it was not necessary or appropriate. There was also an alleged failure to fully assess the fetal condition and to provide the required treatment.

Liability was not at issue and the case came before Mr Justice Paul Coffey for approval of the settlement. The judge said he was satisfied that the figure was “fair and reasonable” given the boy’s current and anticipated needs. He approved the settlement and conveyed his best wishes to Cian and his family.