Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 651: To ask the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 203 of 30 May 2006, if she will fulfil a written commitment to establish a no fault compensation scheme for psychiatric nurses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1073/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I can confirm that the Government decided on 17th January 2007 to authorise the Health Service Executive (HSE) to source personal injury insurance cover for nurses employed in mental health services. This insurance would provide a fixed tariff of compensation for particular physical injuries resulting from assault by a patient. This would be in addition to the benefits available under the existing Serious Physical Assaults Scheme.

The HSE has also been asked to examine the procedures in place to reduce the level of assaults on staff by patients/clients and to report to me.

My Department has advised the HSE of the Government decision and has requested that the matter be progressed as quickly as possible.