4. Statement by the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Services: Cwm Taf Maternity Services

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:09 pm on 9 October 2018.

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Photo of Vikki Howells Vikki Howells Labour 3:09, 9 October 2018

I'd like to also place on record my sympathies to any families within the Cwm Taf health board area who've been affected by these adverse outcomes. I welcome the fact that, in your statement this afternoon, Cabinet Secretary, it seems that the terms of reference for this inquiry are flexible and can encompass many different strands. I've been involved in one case relating to maternity services in Prince Charles Hospital where I and my office have closely supported the affected family. There, we were told that just one senior midwife was covering both Prince Charles Hospital and the Royal Glamorgan at that time. So, I welcome your comments in response to the questions by Rhun ap Iorwerth that the review will be looking at whether staff shortages are a part of these issues. With patient flows from the bulk of Cynon Valley moving in the direction of Prince Charles Hospital, what reassurances can you give around the continued delivery of maternity services at the site? And that is specifically in relation to this crucial period in the meantime, before the findings of any review are published.