Dr. Cl?ona Murphy:

To answer that question, the HPRA has classified mesh differently. More communication has been sent out to people as regards reporting instances. There was an acknowledgement that there was maybe an under-reporting of complications in the past. A pro formamechanism has been set up in order that any mesh that is put in and results in complications will be identified and clearly tagged. We also put up very detailed guidelines regarding the diagnosis and management of complications with mesh, as well as management of stress urinary incontinence going forward. Much work has been done in respect of clinical governance.

In the future, should the use of mesh be allowed in the country again, a strict number of people would have the authorisation to use it on their lists and there would be a clear line of governance. There would also be multidisciplinary teams in order that there would be good decision-making behind any insertions of mesh. There are a number of things in place that will improve the quality and safety of care given to women.

Obviously, I will say again that we would welcome contact from any women who have not contacted us previously. We want to do our best for women. We acknowledge that people may be embarrassed to come forward or maybe do not want to go again to the same unit they were in. That can be an issue but the services are there. We want to provide services for people who feel they have lost out or who maybe did not come forward in the past.