Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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Question 206: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she will respond to the communication received from a group (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [21777/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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An Inquiry into the practice of peripartum hysterectomy at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, was established by the Government following the decision of the Medical Council to remove the name of Dr. Michael Neary from the Register of Medical Practitioners after finding him guilty of professional misconduct. The Inquiry was chaired by Judge Maureen Harding Clark. Following the publication of the Inquiry Report in February 2006, Judge Clark was requested by the Government to advise on an appropriate scheme of redress. In April 2007 the Government approved the establishment of an ex-gratia scheme of redress for former patients of Dr Neary who underwent an unplanned obstetric hysterectomy or bilateral oophorectomy which in the opinion of a Consultant Obstetrician was medically unwarranted. Judge Clark was appointed to oversee the operation of the Redress Scheme.

Contributions were sought by Judge Clark from indemnifiers and a total of €7.7m was received. No contribution was received from the Medical Defence Union of which Dr. Neary was a member. The work of the Redress Board is at an advanced stage and Judge Clark will furnish a final report to the Minister on the operation of the Redress Board on completion of her work. I have met with the patient advocacy group referred to by the Deputy on a number of occasions to discuss issues of concern to them. The issues raised are under consideration and I will revert to the group as soon as possible.