Hildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the witnesses for their presentation this morning. I seek the views of the witnesses on the issue of duty of disclosure by doctors in hospitals and the idea of open disclosure and a duty of candour in the event of medical negligence. I know this was on the agenda previously but was shelved. In my view it would offer more transparency but do the witnesses think it would lead to better safety standards or is it an insurance-related matter?

Designated centres were mentioned and the focus was on the treatment of patients as opposed to the facilities. I take on board the point with regard to home care. My question pertains to outdated hospital facilities and the witnesses' views on that with regard to standards across the country.