HSE crackdown on leaked reports

The HSE West have circulated a memo revealing the use of planted documentation in an effort to trace leaks from the organisation. Key documents which are due for circulation internally are individualised through small changes to the words or punctuation. Staff will also have to sign confidentiality clauses when they attend meetings at which confidential data is discussed. The Irish Times reveal today the memo was sent last month by Catherine Cunningham, area manager for primary, continuing and community care, to local managers and addresses the recent leaking of "numerous confidential reports and information". The memo was written before the recent leaking of the HSE report into the death of Savita Halappanavar but following local controversy over the proposed closure of Toghermore House, a mental health facility in Tuam. It states a number of initiatives are being taken in an effort to combat leaks, including "planted documentation", and a review of all aspects of data protection and confidentiality.