SAVITA'S HUSBAND SAYS OPENING OF INQUEST HEARING WAS DIFFICULT

Date Published: 18-Jan-2013

The inquest into the death of Savita Halappanavar at University Hospital Galway is to begin on Monday April 8th.

A preliminary hearing was held at Galway Courthouse today (Jan 18) where 10 agenda items were discussed.

31 year old Savita died at UHG on October 28th after suffering a miscarriage and contracting septicaemia.

The Coroner advised that as the inquest goes outside the statutory instrument of coroner inquiries, the local authority has agreed to fund excess, such as expert witnesses or any sundry expenses that may arise.

The Coroner also said that there is a need for a certain propriety before the final hearing, that would be that documents are confidential.

Barrister for Praveen Halappanavar John O'Donnell said it is not their intention to disclose documentation and he added they were anxious to proceed with the matter and let the truth come out.

Outside Galway courthouse, Savita's widower Praveen said the hearing had been difficult but he drew strength from his late wife.