Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

To ask the Minister for Health when he is going to make the Walsh Report on Symphysiotomy available to the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17991/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy is aware, my Department has commissioned an independent research report in relation to the practice of symphysiotomy in Ireland. The research process comprised of two stages. The first stage was an independent draft academic research report , which was based on an analysis of published medical reports and research. The second stage in the research process was consultation on the draft report involving patient groups, health professionals and in particular the women who have experienced symphysiotomy. The second stage has just been completed by the researcher and the report has been sent for peer review. It is expected that the report will be finalised and submitted to my Department in May and that it will be published as soon as possible after that.

My first priority is to ensure that the women who have had this procedure have their health needs comprehensively and professionally met. In this regard, the HSE provides a range of services to women who continue to suffer the effects of having had this procedure. These services 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.