Vol. 521 No. 1
216 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has had considerations made into giving compensation to children who suffer brain damage at or close to the time of birth; if he has received submissions in relation to the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16647/00]
The Government, in December 1999, agreed in principle to introduce changes in the manner in which the health service insures itself and its employees against claims for clinical negligence. The Government has also asked that consideration be given to the introduction of a no fault scheme for brain-damaged infants. My predecessor and the Attorney General met representatives of the Medical Defence Union and the Medical Protection Society at the end of last year to discuss changes in the way in which personal injury claims are dealt with by the courts. The two organisations have since made written submissions to the Attorney General on reform in this area.
