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Ministerial Appointments

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 11 December 2012

Tuesday, 11 December 2012

Questions (501)

Billy Kelleher

Question:

501. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if it is his intention to fill the seven vacancies on the Hepatitis C and HIV Compensation Tribunal; if so, if he will outline the process that is being undertaken to fill these posts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55379/12]

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Written answers

I appoint the members of the Hepatitis C Compensation Tribunal in accordance with Section 3 of the Hepatitis C Compensation Tribunal Act l997.

The Tribunal carries out judicial type functions and is therefore very different to a typical State Board. It hears claims in relation to persons infected with Hepatitis C or HIV through the administration within the State of infected blood or blood products. Claims are dealt with by the Tribunal by way of an in camera oral hearing before two members of the Tribunal and the Chairperson. The Tribunal was set up in order that claimants could have their cases heard in a confidential, person centred, fashion. Ministerial appointments to the Tribunal are made on the advice of the Attorney General and I have received the Attorney's advice in relation to the seven vacancies. I intend to appoint members as quickly as possible.

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