The chairman of the investigation team examining the death of Savita Halappanavar has been given the authority by the HSE to go to court to seek the release of medical records to assist his inquiry.

Last night, lawyers for Praveen Halappanavar said they would challenge any attempt by the inquiry team to access the deceased woman"s medical records.

31 year old Savita died last month at University Hospital Galway following a miscarriage, after allegedly being refused a medical termination. 

Speaking to RTE"s Prime Time Praveen Halappanavar says he and his family have no confidence in the HSE to conduct an inquiry into Savita"s death and therefore he will not co-operate with the investigation.

"Praveen Halappanavar has a right to an independent inquiry"

Meanwhile The Irish Council for Civil Liberties says Praveen Halappanavar has a right to an independent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding his wife"s death.

He"s demanding a full public inquiry, and his lawyers are planning to challenge any attempt by the existing HSE inquiry to access Savita"s medical records.

The HSE says their team"s terms of reference allow for court action for the release of the files.

Director of the ICCL Mark Kelly has described the current situation as "cruel and intolerable to a bereaved man" and he"s calling on the government to resolve it immediately.

President Micheal D Higgins says inquiry must meet needs of the family

The President Micheal D Higgins has said the inquiry into the death of Savita Halappanavar needs to meet the needs of the family as well as those of the State.

In an unprecedented intervention for a President - Mr Higgins said the investigation must ensure that women get the medical services they"re entitled to during pregnancy.

His comments came after the Government vowed to press ahead with the HSE investigation without the consent of the family.