Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 February 2013
352. Deputy Gerald Nash asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on implementation of the programme for Government commitment in respect of the proposed extension of the Neary redress scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8001/13]
View answerA 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. The scheme of redress approved by Government in 2007 was a non-statutory, ex-gratia scheme. Awards were determined by an independent redress board in 2007 and 2008. My Department has been engaged in a review to identify the most appropriate mechanism to compensate these women. This review has included taking instructions and legal advice, including advice from the Office of the Attorney General, with a view to bringing proposals to Government for a decision. This process is ongoing, and it is my intention that it will be brought to a satisfactory, legally sound conclusion as quickly as possible.
