Bernard Allen
Question:312 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will make a statement on the situation where the enterprise liability scheme is being forced through without agreement with Irish hospital consultants. [19332/02]
Written Answers. - Clinical Indemnity.
There is no intention to force consultants into the clinical indemnity scheme without their agreement. Discussions are continuing with both of the organisations representing consultants. However, the profession is aware of my Department's view that the present indemnity and insurance arrangements are unstable and will not be viable for much longer. It is in the interests of doctors, patients and the health care system generally that all doctors should be covered by the scheme as quickly as possible.