Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 June 2004
325 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on the assessment of the Medical Defence Union, MDU, that discussions with his Department have been frustrating and non productive and that a negotiated solution is now impossible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19551/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe discussions which my Department has been engaged in with the Medical Defence Union in regard to historic obstetric liabilities have been long and difficult. This, in part, reflects the difficult and complex nature of the problem which both sides are attempting to address. I do not accept the MDU's contention that a negotiated agreement is impossible to achieve. I have just written to the MDU indicating the Government's interest in negotiating a solution to this problem which is fair to patients, doctors and Irish taxpayers. I expect an equally positive response from the MDU.
