173 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health if he has received a report from the special working group representing his Department and the Departments of Finance, Industry and Commerce and Justice, and the Office of the Attorney General which was set up to examine the growing cost of litigation arising from allegations of medical negligence; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The working group to which the Deputy refers was established to examine all areas of medical indemnity. However, in view of the significant increasing costs, the group was asked to focus initially on any possible short term alternatives to the present system of providing indemnity.