A Potential Breakthrough: A Formal Public Inquiry Into Children's Spinal Care Is on the Horizon
But here's where it gets controversial—an official, legally structured investigation into how healthcare providers have managed spinal conditions like scoliosis and spina bifida in children seems imminent. Recent developments suggest that top government officials are moving towards establishing a statutory public inquiry, signaling a significant step towards transparency and accountability.
The Tánaiste (Deputy Prime Minister) and the Minister for Health have indicated they plan to present a formal proposal to the government, recommending a public, legally authorized inquiry into these critical issues. This initiative arises amid growing concerns from families, advocacy groups, and the broader public about the treatment of children with these complex conditions.
Earlier today, Simon Harris and Jennifer Carroll MacNeill shared that their discussions with Harvey Morrison Sherratt's parents, along with representatives from advocacy organizations, were described as 'collaborative and constructive.' These conversations are part of an ongoing effort to understand the problems fully and ensure the voices of children and their families are central to any investigation.
The government recognizes that setting up such an inquiry will require extensive groundwork. To manage this process effectively, a facilitator will be appointed to work with stakeholders and develop clear terms of reference—essentially the guidelines that define the scope and focus of the investigation. This effort aims to ensure that all perspectives are fairly considered and that the inquiry remains transparent and thorough.
It is anticipated that Minister Carroll MacNeill will submit a detailed memo supporting this public inquiry to Cabinet next week. If approved, this will mark a formal acknowledgment of the need for systemic review and real reform.
Earlier, the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Micheál Martin expressed the government's commitment in the Dáil (parliament) to assist Harvey Morrison Sherratt's family in uncovering the truth about his medical care, especially given the tragic circumstances surrounding his death.
Meanwhile, Mary Lou McDonald, leader of Sinn Féin, criticized the government sharply, accusing it of failing at every level to address the scandal involving children's care.
Following the recent discussions, Harvey's mother, Gillian Sherratt, confirmed that the government has in principle agreed to initiate a statutory public inquiry into Harvey’s case and the broader treatment of children with spina bifida and scoliosis.
A joint statement from Harvey's parents, along with the Scoliosis Action Group and the Paediatric Advocacy Group for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, highlighted the government's tentative endorsement of a Tribunal of Inquiry—an official, court-like investigation. They emphasized the importance of a neutral facilitator to develop and agree upon the Terms of Reference, ensuring that the voices of affected children and families stay at the forefront of the process.
The advocacy groups expressed hope that the outcomes will lead to meaningful, lasting change—so that no other child suffers from the failed care Harvey experienced.
Earlier dialogues in late September included meetings between Harvey's family, the Tánaiste, and Minister Harris, where plans for an inquiry were discussed—but the precise form it would take was not yet determined.
Public pressure has been mounting, especially from opposition parties, demanding a transparent and comprehensive public investigation.
Harvey, a nine-year-old from Clondalkin, Dublin, who had spina bifida and scoliosis, tragically passed away in July this year after waiting several years for necessary spinal surgery. His initial wait began in February 2022, and his spinal curvature was as severe as 130 degrees when he underwent surgery last November.
Controversy intensified recently when it was revealed that Harvey was removed from the Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) urgent scoliosis surgery waiting list without his parents' knowledge or consent. An article in The Sunday Times reported that this removal was allegedly because CHI officials believed Harvey was a palliative patient—information reportedly disclosed by a whistleblower and currently under investigation.
This alarming report is further complicated by assertions from London’s Great Ormond Street Hospital, which deemed Harvey a suitable candidate for spinal strengthening surgery, highlighting the serious concerns about how his care was managed and communicated. The unfolding investigation will undoubtedly bring more questions to light about the standard of care provided to children with such debilitating conditions and whether systemic failures allowed Harvey’s situation to worsen.
