I could understand the HSE not wanting to automatically admit fault due to insurance issues - a bit like when one who has caused a car accident is advised not to admit fault immediately.
However, that didn't mean that staff at the Coombe had to lie to baby Laoise's parents. The father said that he and his wife were prevented by the master of the hospital from leaving the office until they signed documents - an alleged case of false imprisonment!
If the hospital is HSE-run, then its existence is not in doubt. So why would staff at the Coombe think it was necessary to protect the hospital's reputation?