Sandra McLellan (Cork East, Sinn Fein)
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Question 622: To ask the Minister for Health the actions he will take regarding the plight of all the victims of symphysiotomy. [15005/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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My Department has received a draft report from the independent academic researcher who was appointed to complete a report into the practice of symphysiotomy in Ireland.

I have asked the Attorney General to consider the draft report. Subject to her views, I propose to make the draft report available for consultation. The draft report will then be finalised by the academic researcher, taking account of the consultative process and any legal considerations. I will consider the outcome of the consultation process and the full report when it has been finalised. I will then make decisions regarding the appropriate next steps. I am determined to bring this matter to a satisfactory conclusion for all the women concerned as soon as possible.

I am very conscious of the distress that this procedure has caused to a number of women in the past and recognise the pain that this issue has caused to those affected by it. The Government is committed to dealing with it sensitively, so that if at all possible, closure can be brought to those affected by it. In the first instance, it is important to make sure that the health needs of those who have had a symphysiotomy are met quickly and effectively. With this in mind I am committed to ensuring that the greatest possible supports and services are made available to women who continue to suffer effects of having undergone this procedure. The women concerned continue to receive attention and care through a number of services which have been put in place. These include the provision of medical cards, the availability of independent clinical advice and the organisation of individual pathways of care and the arrangement of appropriate follow-up.

I intend that there will be a named person to deal with all queries in relation to symphysiotomy. I would appeal to any woman who has had a symphysiotomy to make contact with this individual to ensure they obtain the services we are providing and they are entitled to.

The provision of these necessary support services for women is monitored and overseen by the HSE who are committed to being proactive in seeking out and offering help to women who underwent a symphysiotomy.