The commissioner leading a public inquiry into the work of a discredited former forensic pathologist will hold private meetings this week with people affected by the doctor's work.
The inquiry was announced after a review of 45 of Dr. Charles Smith's child autopsies found that he had made errors in 20 of the cases.
Twelve of those cases resulted in criminal convictions, and one in a finding of not criminally responsible.
Justice Stephen Goudge said Monday that the goal of the inquiry was to restore confidence in Ontario's pediatric forensic pathology system.
Smith was involved in more than 1,000 autopsies for the Ontario Office of the Chief Coroner.
Goudge said the discussions that will begin this week are vital to fully comprehending the impact of the "systemic failings."
Goudge said no transcripts or recordings of the meetings will be made public.
"What is said to me by participants will not be disclosed. Many participants agreed to meet only on that basis," he said. "The meetings will anchor my work in real human experience."
Goudge said he will again meet with more families in August.
He must have his report completed within a one year time frame. It is expected to deal with strategies to improve policies, procedures and accountability in the Office of the Chief Coroner.
Goudge's conclusions will not cover any individual cases that have been or may be subject to criminal proceedings.
Further, Goudge said he wouldn't offer any conclusions or recommendations pertaining to any discipline or civil or criminal liability issues.
Last month, Marco Trotta was released from prison on bail pending appeal of his conviction for murdering his infant son.
Trotta, who served nine years in jail, was convicted in part by evidence from Smith.
With files from The Canadian Press
