Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

46. To ask the Minister for Health how he will respond to the health needs of those Magdalen laundry survivors living outside Ireland; if he will prioritise those of advanced years with serious health issues; and if there will be a comprehensive accessible guide on health entitlements for all the survivors. [27697/15]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As the Deputy will be aware, the primary and community health services under the Redress for Women Resident in Certain Institutions Act 2015 are made available by the HSE only in Ireland. Women who currently reside outside of Ireland can access the health services when they visit Ireland. However, the RWRCI Act is not applicable in other countries and, therefore, it does not provide them with health services outside of Ireland.

The Department of Health and the HSE have focused on implementing the Act for the majority of women living in Ireland. In the response to a Question put down by the Deputy on 7th July on the Magdalene Laundry survivors living outside Ireland, I stated that the HSE had corresponded directly with all the women living in Ireland who are eligible to avail of the services. I have since been advised by the HSE that, due to a technical difficulty with the cards, the correspondence did not issue. I have been further advised that correspondence will issue this week. In addition to the RWRCI card, the HSE is providing each woman with comprehensive information on the health services, including contact points in the HSE Community Health Organisation areas to access further information.

However, I would emphasise that my Department and the HSE are also exploring the practical arrangements to be put in place for the overseas women, of whom about 90% reside in the United Kingdom. The Deputy will be aware that all health systems around the world vary in organisation and that each system is practically unique and equally complex. The HSE will be in contact with the women living abroad to advise them that this issue is being examined and, when practical arrangements are in place, they will be contacted further with the details.

While I acknowledge that this important and complex matter is taking longer than anticipated, I am satisfied with the work undertaken by the HSE and my Department. I hope the systems will be in place as soon as possible so that each woman can access the approved health services to address her individual needs.