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Hospital in baby deaths inquiry Hospital in baby deaths inquiry
(about 4 hours later)
An investigation is under way into the sudden deaths of four babies at the neonatal unit of Altnagelvin Hospital in Londonderry.An investigation is under way into the sudden deaths of four babies at the neonatal unit of Altnagelvin Hospital in Londonderry.
The babies died in the space of a few months, the last in September when the matter was referred to the coroner. It is understood the babies - all under six-months-old - died within seven and a half weeks. The matter was referred to the coroner in September.
It could be a year before the coroner is in a position to make a report.It could be a year before the coroner is in a position to make a report.
The hospital said it was co-operating fully with the inquiry and that any unexpected death was a source of sadness for the staff. The hospital said it was co-operating with the inquiry and any unexpected death saddened the staff.
Neonatal units specialise in treating babies who are sick or premature.Neonatal units specialise in treating babies who are sick or premature.
A hospital spokesperson added: "We would confirm that in September we referred four cases of sudden infant death in the hospital to the coroner for investigation.A hospital spokesperson added: "We would confirm that in September we referred four cases of sudden infant death in the hospital to the coroner for investigation.
"We have given our sincere condolences to the bereaved parents and families."We have given our sincere condolences to the bereaved parents and families.
"We believe it is inappropriate for us to make any further media statements on this matter, pending the completion of those investigations.""We believe it is inappropriate for us to make any further media statements on this matter, pending the completion of those investigations."
The hospital said the babies were weeks or months old. Investigation
Coroners are required by law to investigate deaths which are violent or unnatural, sudden or of an unknown cause.Coroners are required by law to investigate deaths which are violent or unnatural, sudden or of an unknown cause.
The Coroners Service confirmed that John Leckey is investigating the deaths of four infants.
In a statement, the coroner's office said Mr Leckey has arranged for medical experts to assist his investigation.
"The investigations are complex and will take some time to complete," the statement added.
"Once the reports have been received from the experts the need for inquests will be considered by the coroner.
"The reports will be shared with the parents of the babies, the PSNI and the hospital.
"The coroners' liaison officers will be keeping the families informed throughout this process."