Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 December 2011
187 Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health if he will consider an amendment to either the Health (Amendment) Act 1996 or the Hepatitis C Compensation Tribunal (Amendment) Act 1996 or both, as required, to deal with the anomaly of those who are currently testing negative following anti-D contamination but who are suffering ill-health consistent with those testing positive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38103/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraSection 6 of the Hepatitis C Compensation Tribunal (Amendment) Act, 2006 (No. 22 of 2006) rectified an ambiguity in previous legislation as to the definition of "contracted Hepatitis C" and "diagnosed positive for Hepatitis C". This was important in relation to eligibility to apply for compensation under the Hepatitis Compensation Tribunal Act and for services under the Health Amendment Act (HAA) Card. The HAA card entitles holders to avail of a broad range of health services free of charge. As a result of this amendment, there is a now a clear definition for "diagnosed positive for Hepatitis C", using internationally recognised scientific tests, which must apply before a person is eligible for compensation or for services under the Health Amendment Act, 1996.
Some 1,500 people have a HAA Card.
Taking account of international practices and clarification of eligibility brought by the 1996 Amendment, I am satisfied that the present arrangements are fair and reasonable.
