Justice Minister releases results of investigation into death in Labrador

Justice Minister Kelvin Parsons released today the results of the investigation by Dr. Simon Avis, the chief medical examiner, into the death of Paula Walton .

Dr. Avis stated in a letter to Minister Parsons that there is no clear evidence into the cause of death; there is no indication of criminal charges; there is evidence of a failure of medical judgment; there is no evidence to support the accusations made by Don Singleton, legal counsel for the next of kin; there is no evidence of criminal negligence; and, there is no evidence to suggest systemic problems with health care delivery unique to the Melville Hospital.

"The chief medical examiner has conclusively determined that no crime was committed and that there is no systemic problem in the delivery of health care services at the Melville Hospital," said the minister.

Paula Walton died on February 4, 2001, en route to St. Clare's Mercy Hospital in St. John's in a Medivac aircraft. Her husband, David Walton, through his legal counsel, requested a public inquiry into the circumstances of Ms. Walton's death and the quality of health care in Labrador.

Upon review of the investigation, Minister Parsons said a public inquiry will not be held.

Media contact: Edwina Bateman, Communications, (709) 729-6985.

2001 09 27                                        4:25 p.m.