Kevin Fitzpatrick said the loss of his wife Maria left a profound absence and “raised painful questions about the responsibility safety and duty of care owed to every patient.”

The update comes as external reviews into care given to women and babies at Portiuncula Hospital continues.

The HSE said it has appointed a highly experienced team to manage and lead the maternity service at Portiuncula University Hospital as it awaits the outcome of the reviews

The woman remains in a critical condition in Portiuncula University Hospital.