Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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702. To ask the Minister for Health when the independent report produced by Professor Oonagh Walsh on symphysiotomy will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36445/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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My Department received the independent Report into Symphysiotomy in Ireland at the end of May and it was submitted to me shortly after that. Both myself and my Department's officials have been studying its conclusions.

The Report is the result of considerable work by the author and includes both academic research and consultation on this research involving patient groups, health professionals and in particular, women who had undergone symphysiotomy. I am anxious to ensure appropriate treatment for these women. The finalised report will inform the Government’s overall consideration of this matter including any actions that may be required in response to its recommendations, or any legal implications.

I will brief Government on the report shortly, so that it may decide on the next steps, with the aim of bringing closure to the issue for the women involved.

I have also made a commitment to meet representatives of the symphysiotomy support groups once the Government has made a decision on the matter and prior to the publication of the report.