Vol. 462 No. 2
93 Ms Keogh asked the Minister for Health if it is the procedure for hospitals who perform sterilisation by tubal ligation to request that married women obtain the written consent of their husbands before obtaining this method of sterilisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4427/96]
Limerick East): The family planning policy guidelines for health boards prepared by my Department provide that sterilisation operations for family planning purposes are a matter for decision by the individuals concerned in conjunction with their consultants. Where tubal ligations are deemed necessary for medical reasons they are considered part of the hospital's normal activity and are performed on the same basis as any other procedure and the same eligibility criteria apply.
In the case referred to by the Deputy, I understand from the health board concerned that the practice at the hospital has been to offer joint counselling to both partners and for the consultant to obtain the written consent of both parties. I have been advised that this policy is currently being reviewed by the health board.
