Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

Judge Harding Clark's report is enormously helpful in every way. It is the case that the women were not advised. As I said earlier, in fairness when these cases were brought to light, the health board followed up on them. It followed up on the information given to it by the midwife and when the three obstetric consultants examined the case. It did not accept that and engaged a consultant from Manchester who gave a different view. Therefore, it did follow up on the issues. However, what the Deputy has said is correct.

The heads of the Bill will be amended and published sometime between Easter and the summer period. The heads must now be amended based on the findings of this report, but they will be published in advance of the legislation. The Garda Síochána investigated the case previously but now has new information. It is a matter for the Garda to investigate it fully and no doubt it will and will carefully the report. I said I thought it would be useful for the Garda to consult with Judge Harding Clark because it seems — I have probably gone through more of the report than anybody else since its publication — that she has interesting information.

Compensation is an issue the Government will address. However, the Deputy will understand the hospital and the doctor are insured. Whatever arrangements are made, we must ensure that taxpayer does not carry everything. That issue will be discussed today with Patient Focus.

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