Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour)
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Question 365: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if it is his intention to meet with a representative group of women who have been affected by the practice of symphysiotomy in advance of the commencement of work on a new research report commissioned by him into the practice of symphysiotomy in this country; if it is his intention to organise such a meeting between representatives of those affected and the researcher commissioned by him to undertake the research; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12491/11]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The Chief Medical Officer of my Department has commissioned an independent research report into the practice of symphysiotomy in Ireland. The aim of the report will be to provide an accurate picture of the extent of use of symphysiotomy in Ireland, and an examination of the Irish practice relative to other countries. It will include an assessment of the circumstances in which the procedure was carried out, what protocols or guidance existed at the time to guide professional practice, and details of when the practice changed and why. It is my intention that the academic researcher will carry out this work on an objective and independent basis. Following receipt of this report, my Department will further engage with patient representative groups on the matter.