The advisory group examining the feasibility of introducing a no fault compensation scheme for brain damaged infants has met regularly since its establishment in July 2001. The group has conducted an extensive investigation of the clinical and legal issues involved in the handling of those cases. It has also examined existing levels of service provision for those affected by cerebral damage. The group has had a presentation made to it by parents of children affected by cerebral damage on the day to day implications of providing care for them at home. Most recently it has examined prevention strategies and the effect of reforms introduced in the United Kingdom on the handling of claims for compensation for injuries resulting from the provision of clinical care. I hope that the group will be in a position to present its final report in 2003.
The recent settlement made on behalf of an infant with cerebral palsy emphasises the need to complete the examination of the issue being undertaken by the advisory group. As the group has already indicated its intention of completing its work by the end of this year it would not be appropriate to ask it to expedite the process.
