Gerry Adams (Louth, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I raise the issue of symphysiotomy. I understand the independent report by Dr. Oonagh Walsh may be published soon, perhaps even later today. As the Taoiseach knows, many of the victims of this horrific procedure are very elderly. They have waited a very long time for justice. Approximately 350 of the 1,500 symphysiotomies were carried out in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda, in many cases without the consent of the women involved. There are now just over 200 survivors, some of whom are quite frail. They are all very elderly and carry deep emotional and physical scars from their experiences. They have the support of all parties in the Oireachtas and the Government supported the Statute of Limitations (Amendment) Bill 2013 which was introduced by Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin. That Bill seeks to accommodate access to the courts for all victims of symphysiotomy who choose that course of action, but the Bill has not even been discussed or scheduled for discussion on Committee Stage. As many of the women concerned come from County Louth, they have been in touch with my office in the past month. There has been no consultation with them by the Government. Has there been consultation between the Government and the groups representing the victims? Will the Taoiseach outline the process that will be put in place to provide justice for the women concerned for what they suffered in this barbaric procedure?

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