Clare Daly (Dublin North, Socialist Party)
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Question 489: To ask the Minister for Health if he will meet with an organisation (details supplied), in order to progress the issue of seeking a mechanism to compensate women who were excluded on age grounds from the Lourdes Hospital redress scheme, as is stated in the Programme for Government; when it will be possible to arrange a meeting with this organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33249/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy is aware a commitment was made in the Programme for Government to seek a mechanism to compensate those women who were excluded on age grounds alone from the Lourdes Hospital Redress Scheme.

My Department has been engaged in a review to identify the most appropriate mechanism to compensate those women. This process involves taking instructions and legal advice, including advice from the Office of the Attorney General, with a view to proposals being brought to Government for decision.

I would like to assure the Deputy that I am committed to finding a robust and accessible mechanism to fulfil the Government's commitment to the women involved and I intend bringing proposals to Government at the earliest opportunity.

I previously met the organisation referred to by the Deputy in relation to this sensitive issue and I envisage further consultation with them as the matter progresses.