Senate observes moment of silence for newborns who died at VJH

  

The Senate on Friday morning observed a moment of silence in remembrance of the 24 babies who reportedly died at the Victoria Jubilee Hospital (VJH) since the start of the month.

 

The observance followed a request from Opposition Senator Lambert Brown who also paid tribute to the more than 200 babies he said have died at the hospital since 2023.

 

"Where I'm sitting today, I'm hearing reports of the tragic death of scores of babies at Victoria Jubilee Hospital and maybe I invite us as a Senate to stand in a minute silence in honour of those children who have died and expressing condolences to the mothers, families of nearly 200 children who have died at Victoria Jubilee Hospital in the last two or so years," he said. 

 

Deputy President of the Senate Charles Sinclair agreed that the moment of silence should be observed, but he pointed out that the health authorities are investigating the cases.

 

"The report was publicised in relation to the unfortunate passing of some newborn at the Victoria Jubilee and the expression was made that the situation as to what would have caused the situation was not one that relates to any intrusion of, let us say, bacteria or otherwise, but would appear to be more of natural causes, and the investigation in relation to the situation would continue. But I agree with you on the loss of life of a newborn; that it is obviously something that would be depressing to any mother, any family," he acknowledged.