Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his question. The Department of Health received the independent report produced by Professor Oonagh Walsh on symphysiotomy at the end of May. It was submitted to the Minister for Health on 31 May and both the Minister and departmental officials have been looking at the conclusions reached in it. A great deal of credit is due to Professor Walsh for the manner in which she conducted the report. It is the result of very considerable work by her and includes both academic research and consultation on that research involving patient groups, health professionals and, in particular, the women who underwent symphysiotomy treatment. The Minister for Health is very anxious to ensure appropriate treatment for the women concerned is made available. The finalised report will inform the Government's consideration of how best to deal with this issue and any action the Government may decide to take in response to its recommendations or to any of the legal implications that arises from it. The Minister will brief the Government very shortly on the report in order that it can make a decision on the next steps to be taken.

I know that the Deputy has expressed concern that the Department or the Minister was involved in dealing with one group on this issue. I can confirm that the Minister has made a commitment to meet representatives of the symphysiotomy support groups, once the Government has made its decision on how to proceed.

Contrary to some reports in the media, neither the Department nor the Minister has engaged in a process of meeting one group only. The Minister has given a clear commitment to meet the representatives of the support groups involved in this matter.

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