Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 November 2016
401. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the supports being offered to persons, most of whom are women, who were victims of the hepatitis C infection in the early 1980s; if there are advocacy groups campaigning on their behalf and liaising closely with his department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33775/16]
View answerA wide range of supports are available to people who contracted Hepatitis C from the administration within the State of contaminated blood or blood products:
The Hepatitis C and HIV Compensation Tribunal compensates those who were infected with Hepatitis C and/or HIV;
Under the Health (Amendment) Act 1996, a range of services including GP services, all prescribed drugs, medicines and appliances, dental and ophthalmic services, home support, home nursing, and counselling services are provided without charge;
The Hepatitis C Insurance Scheme provides life assurance, mortgage protection and travel insurance subject to certain limits.
The Consultative Council on Hepatitis C includes some advocacy groups who represent those who contracted Hepatitis C from the administration within the State of contaminated blood or blood products.
