(Limerick East): I propose to take Questions Nos. 2 and 37 together.
I understand that 249 plenary summonses have been served on the Blood Transfusion Service Board (BTSB) in relation to hepatitis C. As the Deputies will be aware, I have published the scheme of the compensation tribunal to pay compensation to Anti D recipients who have contracted hepatitis C and their partners and children who have contracted hepatitis C, in line with the commitment in the policy document, A Government of Renewal, to fair compensation for women infected with the hepatitis C from Anti D. A copy of the scheme has been sent to all those who tested positive for hepatitis C virus-antibodies under the National Blood Screening Programme.
Concern has been expressed by "Positive Action"— the support group for the Anti D women and their families — that the special hospital services and other arrangements put in place for those infected with hepatitis C will be reduced or removed at some stage in the future.
On behalf of the Government, I wish to assure the Dáil and those who have contracted hepatitis C, that all the special additional services put in place for persons who have tested positive for hepatitis C will be available for as long as they are required. I know there is all-party support in the House for the future funding of these services and a shared commitment to ensure the continued on-going availability of the highest quality healthcare services. The needs of those who have been diagnosed positive for hepatitis C will be monitored and re-assessed on a continuous basis to ensure that the necessary health care and support services are provided to meet their needs.
All the services being provided in the public hospital system at present are being provided on a statutory basis under the Health Acts. Similarly, the persons availing of these services are exercising their existing statutory rights to free public hospital services under the Health Acts.
I am continuing to examine the question of extending and enhancing the existing statutory provisions governing the provision of health care services now and in the future. I met last week with the executive committee of "Positive Action" and it has agreed to continue discussions with my Department on these issues and has also agreed to submit a document to my Department on these matters in the near future. I assure the House that I will give serious and detailed consideration to any proposals "Positive Action" put forward.