Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I dealt with this in detail on the previous Stage when I explained why I could not accept the amendments. I will take up Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan's suggestion that we produce an information booklet for the women outlining their entitlements under the Act. It is a good idea and it would be helpful. My Department and the Department of Health will ensure it happens. We are in daily contact with the women who have outstanding issues and there is a very good relationship between the women who are in receipt of the ex gratiapayments, and who are inquiring about the various benefits, and the approximately eight staff who have been dedicated to this over the past year and who have done very detailed work which the women have greatly appreciated. I have gone into detail on the reasons why the two issues regarding advocacy and the complementary therapies cannot be dealt with in the scope of the Bill. However, all of Mr. Justice Quirke's recommendations are being met by the Bill. The recommendations on health are being comprehensively dealt with by the legislation.

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