Séamus Kirk (Louth, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for the opportunity to raise this matter. The issue of symphysiotomy is rather topical and important in the north east but the debate is not confined to there. A number of people throughout the country are directly affected by it. There are between 232 and 250 in the age range of late 50s to 90s who are directly affected by the issue. The Government invited Professor Una Walsh to prepare a report or reports on the matter. One preliminary report has been tabled and released by the Minister for Health. We await the publication of the most important report, which is the second report.

The Minister indicated some time ago to representatives of people affected that the Walsh report would be released soon. Survivors of symphysiotomy were interviewed orally and have made written submissions to Professor Walsh. The question of the legislative change that may be necessary, for example, the lifting of the statute bar in the legislative system, clearly needs to be accelerated. The Minister for Health indicated his intention to appoint a judge, establish a redress arrangement and publish the Walsh report in August last. We await announcements on those fronts.

Unfortunately, some survivors have died even since the meeting in August last. Many of the people involved fear the prospect of going to court. Many are frail at this stage. Furthermore, files are missing or incomplete. There is a need to accelerate and address the matter as quickly as possible.

The reality is that much heartache and pain has been endured by the women involved. The opportunity to bring relief and some comfort to the 230 plus women affected by symphysiotomy exists now. This group of women require peace of mind and the opportunity to deliver this rests with the Minister for Health. If the Minister of State, Deputy White, was in a position to make an announcement this evening on the publication of the Walsh report, the appointment of a judge, a redress scheme and the progression of the legislation on the statue bar, it would be welcome. This is an urgent matter and I urge the Minister of State to address it immediately.

See this speech in context