Urgent call to make Symphysiotomy Scheme available

I am calling today on the Government to implement the ex-gratia scheme for survivors of symphysiotomy urgently. 

“The announcement of the ex-gratia scheme on 1st July, with funding of €34 million being made available by the Government, signalled the next step on the long road towards closure for survivors of symphysiotomy. Having spoken with many of the women who have been affected by this procedure and its aftermath, I know that this announcement brought a sense of relief that a settlement could be reached without the added burden of pursuing their case through the courts.

"However, three months have passed and we are still awaiting further details regarding the application process for the ex-gratia payment scheme. Many of the women affected are elderly and in poor health, and delays of this nature are very distressing.

"I am calling on the Government to expedite this process as a matter of extreme urgency, and have written to the Minister for Health requesting an immediate update. It is important that this scheme is made available as an option for the survivors, and that the women get the opportunity to make decisions regarding their own individual cases. I will continue to advocate on behalf of the survivors and assist them in any way I can.”