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Symphysiotomy Report

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 November 2013

Tuesday, 5 November 2013

Questions (1030)

Gerald Nash

Question:

1030. Deputy Gerald Nash asked the Minister for Health when he will bring proposals in relation to the Walsh Report with regard to symphysiotomy to Government; when he will appoint a judge to meet with the women involved in order to facilitate a process to bring matters with regard to symphysiotomy further to a successful conclusion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45646/13]

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Written answers

As the Deputy may be aware, I received the independent report by Professor Oonagh Walsh on Symphysiotomy in Ireland at the end of May 2013 and the Report is under consideration.

I met with the three support groups representing the women concerned in August 2013. At that meeting, I proposed to appoint a judge to meet with the women in order to facilitate decisions on how best to bring closure for the women concerned.

My officials are actively considering this issue and I intend bringing proposals to Government as soon as possible.

I wish to confirm that I intend to publish the Walsh report when I have received Government approval regarding how best to proceed in relation to this issue.

My priority continues to be to ensure that the women who have had this procedure have their health needs comprehensively and professionally met. In this regard, the HSE provides a range of services to women who may be experiencing any adverse effects as a result of undergoing this procedure. These services include the provision of medical cards, the availability of independent clinical advice and the organisation of individual pathways of care and the arrangement of appropriate follow-up.

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