Vol. 552 No. 1
281 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will establish an appropriate task force to investigate the factors which predispose to attacks on nurses; the way in which such attacks may be prevented; and if he will introduce a scheme of compensation for nurses assaulted while on duty. [11072/02]
290 Ms Clune asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has received a proposed scheme for compensation for psychiatric nurses; if so, his views on the submission; if he will address the concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11149/02]
312 Mr. U. Burke asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will introduce a proper compensation scheme for nurses at all levels and grades within the nursing profession as a matter of urgency in view of the increasing number of physical assaults in the workplace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11297/02]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 281, 290 and 312 together.
I can inform the Deputies that I have decided to establish an appropriate task force to investigate the incidence and the reasons for assaults on psychiatric nurses with a view to designing programmes aimed at prevention.
While it is recognised that it may be difficult to deal with the issue of a compensation scheme in relation to any one group of health service workers in isolation from other public sector groups, regard will be had to the recommendations of the task force on the feasibility of an appropriate compensation scheme.
My officials will make arrangements for the establishment of this task force at the earliest possible date. Every effort will be made to ensure that the task force completes its work by 1 December 2002. The terms of reference for the task force will include the following: "To examine and report on the factors relevant to the introduction of an appropriate compensation scheme".
