Galway consultant Dr John Callaghan recommended the pathologist at the centre of the Cork cancer enquiry, it has emerged.

Dr Antoine Geagea, a Finnish national, worked at UHG from September 2006 to March 2007, and was "an extremely conscientious and hard worker" according to a letter obtained by Newstalk, in which Dr Callaghan gives Dr Geagea a glowing reference for the job at Cork University Hospital. It is understood that Dr Geagea claims the system of testing at UHG is superior to that in Cork.

In the letter, Dr Callaghan says, "I have no reason to doubt his ability in any future post he may find himself and wish him well." Dr Geagea had previously been the subject of two enquiries in his native Finland in relation to incorrect cancer diagnoses.

The HSE West has declined to comment on Dr Geagea's stint in UHG. The HIQA, which is currently investigating pathology examinations at UHG, will not comment on the ongoing investigation.

The recruitment process for HSE employees consists of an interview, checking of references, Medical Council registration, and Garda vetting of the person's record. A HSE spokesperson was unable to say whether this would include professional enquiries.

Comments (0) »

Show/Hide comment form

Name

Email

Title

Comment

Write the displayed characters

Add Comment