Gay Mitchell
Ceist:59 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress, if any, that has been made by him with regard to the institution of court proceedings by the State and by each health board against tobacco companies for the damaging impact of their products on the health of those who use them; and if the Government intends to provide any financial assistance or protection for private citizens who are instituting or who have instituted civil court proceedings seeking damages against tobacco companies. [5476/98]