There are in excess of 100 individuals throughout the country who, when they were children, were profoundly disabled following the administration of State-supported vaccination programmes. Many of them are now in their late 40s and early 50s and their elderly parents want to know what is going to happen when they are no longer around. Since I met the then Minister, Deputy Martin, and current Leader of the Opposition, 11 and a half years ago, the Department of Health has been considering this issue. In fairness, the current Minister, Deputy Reilly, provided a commitment, during a radio interview on 19 September last, to bring forward legislation in this area in order to facilitate the introduction of a no-fault compensation scheme for individuals who have suffered as a result of the administration of State-promoted vaccines. When will this legislation be brought forward? Is there any mechanism by means of which we might expedite matters? The families involved have waited long enough for the truth and they need this matter to be dealt with expeditiously. They are so frustrated that they are talking about coming to the gates of Leinster House to protest. None of us want that to happen. I request that the Minister for Health ensure that the legislation in question be dealt with as quickly as possible.

Deputy Naughten has raised this matter on a number of previous occasions. These parents are not the only ones concerned about their children. I empathise with the families of the 100 individuals who were severely disabled. I recall the discussions which took place on this matter in the past and the tragic consequences to which the administration of a particular vaccine gave rise. The legislation that will be taken between now and the Christmas recess has been approved. I cannot inform the Deputy as to when the Minister for Health intends to bring forward the heads of a Bill relating to this matter before Government. If they are brought forward in the new year, then obviously the new system for dealing with legislation will apply and the relevant committee will consider whether hearings should take place on this matter. I will ask the Minister to respond to the Deputy in due course. However, legislation relating to this issue has certainly not come before Cabinet as yet.