Mr. Stephen Mulvany:

The Deputy is absolutely correct. I am not an expert but as I understand it, there is an interdepartmental group in which the State Claims Agency is involved that is doing just that and looking at the overall operation in this area. It is largely in the courts process or not necessarily the courts but how redress is sought and provided, which is currently predominantly through the courts process, although there are alternatives that may need to be used more. The work the Deputy is talking about is going on. The HSE is involved indirectly through its engagement with the State Claims Agency but it is a matter for the State Claims Agency, a number of Departments and the Courts Service how that operates. I agree with the Deputy that it is something that needs attention.