The Minister for Health has asked for an urgent report on the death of a child whose heart surgery at Our Lady's Hospital in Crumlin was delayed because of a shortage of nurses in the intensive care unit.
Micheal Martin also expressed his sympathy for the family of the child involved.
The child was due to have surgery yesterday but was sent home when the operation was postponed and died early this morning.
The Eastern Regional Health Authority also expressed sympathy for the family.
A spokesperson said that it had started work on the investigation requested by the Minister and the report would be presented at the earliest opportunity.
