Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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107. To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the action being taken to provide support and redress to survivors of symphysiotomy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24016/14]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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My priority continues to be to ensure that the women who have undergone surgical symphysiotomy continue to have their health needs comprehensively and professionally met. The HSE provides a range of services to women who may be experiencing any adverse effects as a result of undergoing 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. All of these services are available on request by the women from the HSE nominated Symphysiotomy Liaison Officers.

Since coming into office, I have endeavoured to satisfactorily facilitate closure for around 250-350 women affected by symphysiotomy.

On 26 November 2013, Government approved the appointment of retired Circuit Court Judge Yvonne Murphy to assist in setting out a possible course of action in relation to women who have undergone surgical symphysiotomies. Judge Murphy commenced her review of issues relating to Symphysiotomy in December and submitted her report to me in mid-March.

I am closely examining the report and its recommendations. I will bring a Memorandum to Government in the coming weeks, so that a decision can be taken as early as possible regarding next steps.

Any proposals brought to Government will also take into account the findings of the independent research report on Symphysiotomy in Ireland 1944-1984, which was commissioned by my Department (the Walsh Report), along with any other relevant information. It is intended that the Walsh Report will be published once the Government has decided on its response to this complex and sensitive issue.