Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 10 July 2012
489 Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Health if he will meet with an organisation (details supplied), in order to progress the issue of seeking a mechanism to compensate women who were excluded on age grounds from the Lourdes Hospital redress scheme, as is stated in the programme for Government; when it will be possible to arrange a meeting with this organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33249/12]
View answerAs the Deputy is aware a commitment was made in the Programme for Government to seek a mechanism to compensate those women who were excluded on age grounds alone from the Lourdes Hospital Redress Scheme.
My Department has been engaged in a review to identify the most appropriate mechanism to compensate those women. This process involves taking instructions and legal advice, including advice from the Office of the Attorney General, with a view to proposals being brought to Government for decision.
I would like to assure the Deputy that I am committed to finding a robust and accessible mechanism to fulfil the Government's commitment to the women involved and I intend bringing proposals to Government at the earliest opportunity.
I previously met the organisation referred to by the Deputy in relation to this sensitive issue and I envisage further consultation with them as the matter progresses.
