Cork politician challenges CHI executives on failings in care for children
Former chief executive of CHI Eilísh Hardiman. Photo: Collins
“If the core is rotten, how can you change the culture?” stated Senator Nicole Ryan who has called for public accountability from Children’s Health Ireland (CHI).
The Cork politician challenged CHI executives on failings in care for children during their recent committee appearance before the Oireachtas Health Committee.
During the hearing, Senator Ryan questioned former CHI chief Eilísh Hardiman, who oversaw CHI for five years and recently took up a new role within the organisation as strategic programme director, while keeping her salary of almost €184,000.
A number of recent controversies have been disclosed in recent weeks including the ¬unpublished report that was highly critical of the culture within the organisation, as well as an audit into hip dysplasia surgeries and waiting lists for spinal surgeries.
During the Oireachtas Health Committee sitting, Senator Ryan wondered if Ms Hardiman faced any sanctions over the scandal at the organisation that manages paediatric hospitals and healthcare.
Ms Hardiman responded by acknowledging weakness in the system and saying ‘part of accountability is being here today,’ but offering only a broad apology.
In response Senator Ryan said accountability is not showing up to answer questions without consequence. “Accountability means being held responsible for the decisions made, especially when those decisions put children’s lives and safety at risk.”
Read more
The committee also heard that the current chief executive, Lucy Nugent is open to holding town hall meetings with parents, something she already does with CHI staff.
Ms Ryan has urged parents affected by the failures in Children’s Health Ireland to request a public meeting with Ms Nugent. “I urge parents to reach out directly to CHI and request a public town hall meeting with Ms Nugent. She committed to that in the committee. Let her follow through. Families deserve clarity, answers, and truth. This can be a small but important step for those still left in the dark.”
“For too long, culture has been blamed, but when the culture is rotten, it starts at the core. We need to stop hiding behind vague terms and start naming names, outlining actions, and delivering justice for children and their families,” she added.
Senator Ryan confirmed that she will continue to call for full transparency and accountability in CHI and for meaningful engagement with affected families as part of rebuilding public trust in children’s health services.
