Press Release: Tuesday 18 November 2025
Government agrees to statutory public inquiry into Spina Bifida and Complex Scoliosis Services
Today, Tuesday 18th November 2025, the Government agreed to a statutory public inquiry into spina bifida and complex scoliosis services.
As an initial step, the Government agreed that a facilitator will be appointed to consult with stakeholders on scoping the content of potential terms of reference for an inquiry. The Department of Health will consult closely with the Office of the Attorney General on progressing this exercise following this decision of Government.
This will be a time-bound exercise, but there is a considerable body of work to be undertaken to ensure that we ultimately have the clearest possible terms of reference for a statutory inquiry. It is important that the many issues raised are carefully considered as to what may be the best way to achieve the outcomes sought by families and other stakeholders.
Once this scoping exercise is complete, further Government approval will be sought for the final terms of reference.