Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 July 2012
635 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Health his views on the Walsh report in respect of women who underwent a symphysiotomy between the 1940s and the 1990s; if an apology will be issued to the women who were put through this medical procedure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32173/12]
View answerProfessor Oonagh Walsh, independent researcher from University College Cork was commissioned by the Chief Medical Officer in the Department of Health to draft a report in relation to the practice of symphysiotomy in Ireland. This draft report is the first stage of a two-stage process in relation to this research on the practice of symphysiotomy in Ireland. This first stage is an independent academic research report, which is based on an analysis of published medical reports and research. The draft report contains information about how frequently symphysiotomy was carried out in Ireland and compares rates with other countries. The second stage in the research, which is now underway, is a consultation process on the draft report involving patient groups, health professionals and in particular the women who have undergone symphysiotomy.
The final report, which will take full account of the consultation outcomes and include recommendations, will be presented to me to assist me in my consideration of any actions that may be required to address the issues concerned. The researcher expects to complete the final report in the Autumn. I then intend to publish the report after it is presented to me, subject to the usual legal considerations but I do not anticipate any significant difficulties in that regard.
I do not wish to express any views on the draft report which is going to consultation to preserve the independence of the research process and to allow the women in particular to provide their views in the consultation concentrating solely on the research report and without being possibly deflected from that process by any statements from me. I would encourage all involved to take the opportunity to participate in the consultation process to ensure that the women concerned can give their views directly to Professor Oonagh Walsh. I remain determined to bring this matter to a conclusion for all women concerned as soon as possible.
