I have received a letter from the person to whom you refer and my Department is considering the issues raised.
I understand this person is seeking access for a group of women who received infectious, or potentially infectious, Anti-D Immunoglobulin in two periods (between 1977 and 1979 and between 1991 and 1994) and who tested negative for Hepatitis C to compensation from the Hepatitis C and HIV Compensation Tribunal and to be awarded HAA cards.
The Hepatitis C Compensation Tribunal (Amendment) Act 2006, provides clear scientific grounds for the definition of “diagnosed positive for Hepatitis C”. Under this legislation a diagnosis must arise (a) from a positive result from one of three specific tests for the presence of Hepatitis C virus, or (b) from the presence of antibodies to the virus, or (c) based on evidence of jaundice up to 16 weeks after the administration of Anti-D Immunoglobulin. I am satisfied that no new scientific evidence has emerged in this regard.
I am aware that Trinity College are planning to carry out a study with the aim of exploring why some people appear to have a natural protection from Hepatitis C.