Urgent Concerns Rise Over Portiuncula Maternity Services Plans

UPDATE: No commitment has been made to restore full maternity services at Portiuncula Hospital, raising urgent concerns among local women. This revelation follows a recent presentation by the Health Service Executive (HSE) to the Oireachtas Health Committee regarding maternity services on October 25, 2023. Local Councillor Evelyn Parsons expressed that there are “still more questions than answers” about the controversial decision made in July 2025 to transfer higher-risk pregnancies to other facilities.

During the presentation, HSE CEO Bernard Gloster confirmed that care reviews for twelve women and their infants are underway, but notably, five reviews remain incomplete. Gloster disclosed that two intrauterine deaths occurred in 2023, leading to heightened scrutiny on care protocols, with concerns raised about their impact on patient outcomes.

In alarming statistics, Gloster reported that five babies were referred for therapeutic hypothermia to address hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy at Portiuncula in 2024, a figure “considerably above the national rate.” All review teams are progressing well, with expectations to complete these reviews by the end of Q1 2026.

To enhance safety and management of maternity services at Portiuncula, an External Management Team, comprising a consultant obstetrician, director of midwifery, and general manager, was appointed in January 2025. This team aims to provide additional oversight and governance for the unit. However, Gloster emphasized that while improvements are being made, there is a need for caution regarding the types of pregnancies that can be safely managed at Portiuncula.

Gloster acknowledged the ongoing concerns from women using Portiuncula services and recognized the disappointment felt by the community in Ballinasloe and surrounding areas. “I particularly want to acknowledge the women and their partners whose stories are central to these reviews,” he stated, offering an apology on behalf of the health service for the adverse outcomes experienced.

Councillor Parsons, who attended the committee hearing, criticized the absence of discussions about restoring maternity services. She highlighted the risks involved in transferring women with higher-risk pregnancies across multiple counties to already strained units such as University Hospital Galway (UHG).

“There is a dire need for clarity on whether this is the safest course of action,” Parsons stated. “We must be provided with risk assessment information to ensure trust in our healthcare system.” She insisted on the need for a comprehensive plan for the reinstatement of services at Portiuncula, stating, “We require a roadmap.”

As the HSE continues to navigate these pressing issues, the future of maternity services at Portiuncula remains uncertain, leaving many local families in distress. Authorities are urged to act swiftly to address these matters and provide the necessary transparency to restore public confidence in the healthcare services offered at Portiuncula Hospital.

Stay tuned for more developments on this critical situation affecting maternal health in the region.