18/06/2026
"If even one baby is safer because of what we have done, then his short life will have changed things for the better, that is what we hold on to."
Today’s High Court ruling marks the close of a deeply painful legal process for the family of baby Padraig O’Donnell.
Padraig lived for just four hours after his birth at University Hospital Limerick in June 2022. No sum, apology or legal outcome can ever reflect the depth of that loss.
For Leanne O’Brien, Patrick O’Donnell and their family, this case was about Padraig. It was about having failings acknowledged, seeking accountability, and ensuring that what happened to him is not forgotten.
The HSE has acknowledged failings in the standard of care provided to Leanne and Padraig, and has issued a formal apology to the family.
We were privileged to support Padraig’s family through this process.
Our thoughts remain with Leanne, Patrick and all who love and remember Padraig.
Further details are available in the linked article:
Baby Pádraig O’Brien, O’Donnell from Newcastlewest, Limerick, the High Court heard, died four hours after his birth at the Limerick hospital on June 18 2022