Praveen to give evidence in 'negligence' case to be heard in early 2015

The case, which is taken by Praveen Halappanavar against the Health Service Executive (HSE) and obstetrician Katherine Astbury, will be heard in the High Court and it is expected to proceed in the next court term.

Mr Halappanavar's solicitor Gerard O'Donnell told the Sunday Independent: "We're hoping it will be heard in early spring, we are just waiting for a date presently. I would like to think it would get in in the first quarter of the year because Praveen has endured so much at this stage."

Mr O'Donnell said he expected the case would take "two to three days" to hear.

"The hospital has admitted liability. They may still attempt to settle the case but, in the absence of that, it will be adjudicated by a judge. Anything can happen right up until the case and it's entirely up to the HSE," he added.

Mr Halappanavar has been living in the US while he carries out a mid-term project for his employers Boston Scientific.

However, Mr O'Donnell confirmed his client plans to return before the case and to give evidence in court.

"The judge will hear evidence from Praveen. He will describe how Savita's treatment and death have affected him. It was an incredibly distressing time for both Praveen and Savita's family. He spent hours by her bedside watching her slowly slip away. The level of trauma he sustained is significant. Some family may also give statements and other expert witnesses. The judge will then assess damages," he said.

The civil suit includes over 30 allegations of negligence in the care of Ms Halappanavar.

These include failures in the treatment given to Ms Halappanavar during her time at University Hospital Galway, and a failure to terminate the pregnancy when it became clear that her life was at risk.

Savita Halappanavar (31) was 17 weeks pregnant and miscarrying when she was admitted to University Hospital Galway on October 21.

She died seven days later, on October 28, as a result of septicaemia which was caused by ecoli ESBL.

Following three separate investigations into her death, the hospital group ordered a review of the actions of all of the staff members who were involved in Savita's care last November.

Nine staff members were disciplined as a result.

A number of staff involved in the care of Ms Halappanavar remain on sick leave two years after her death.

A recent review of the hospital where she died found that half of the 2,000 policies that were in place in the hospital were out of date or required revision.