Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 February 2014
62. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Health if he has assessed the implications of the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights in a case (details supplied) for the 250 or so legal actions for medical negligence taken by survivors of symphysiotomy and pubiotomy. [6707/14]
View answerI understand the HSE who is one of a number of defendants in these cases, will be taking appropriate legal advice in relation to the impact, if any, of the European Court of Human Rights Judgement. Accordingly. I am not in a position to make any further comment on this matter.
In relation to symphysiotomy, on 26 November 2013, the Government approved the appointment of retired Circuit Court Judge Yvonne Murphy to assist in setting out a possible course of action in relation to women who have undergone this surgical procedure. Judge Murphy has been asked to meet a number of key interested parties, particularly the support groups for the women, the State Claims Agency, and the hospitals' insurers. Judge Murphy and I met the three support groups - Survivors of Symphysiotomy, Patient Focus and Survivors of Symphysiotomy Limited - after the Government meeting on 26 November, to outline this plan to them.
On completion of her work, Judge Murphy will provide me with a report, setting out recommendations, as soon as possible. I hope then to be in a position to revert to Government with detailed proposals, so that a decision can be taken as early as possible regarding a way forward that will facilitate closure for the women concerned. Any proposals brought to Government will also take into account the findings of the independent research report in relation to the practice of symphysiotomy in Ireland that was commissioned by my Department, along with any other relevant information.
