Focus must not be drawn away from investigation into Cwm Taf scandal

Commenting on the news this afternoon that Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board Chief Executive Allison Williams is now on an extended period of sickness leave, Shadow Minister for Health, Angela Burns AM, said:

“While I welcome the appointment of Dr Sharon Hopkins into this position, focus must not be drawn away from the crucial review into the dire events at Cwm Taf.

“Ultimately, this is a whole-board issue, and they mustn’t let any disruption cause them to lose sight of the terrible losses that drove these maternity services into special measures this year.

“I will be keeping a close watch on the situation over the coming weeks. I want to see the review panel remaining fully focussed on finding out what went wrong at Cwm Taf, and ensuring it is never allowed to happen again.

“Senior board members who have since admitted being well aware of the numerous complaints must be held accountable at the earliest opportunity and without exception.

“The mothers and the families who will never forget being inadvertently caught up in one of the greatest health care scandals to hit Welsh hospitals are owed answers, and the best way to do this is to ensure due process is adhered to during the investigation, for everyone involved.”