I would like to raise with the Minister the Walsh and Murphy reports on symphysiotomy. Last July, the Taoiseach told the Dáil that the Walsh report on symphysiotomy would be published soon. In November, Judge Yvonne Murphy was appointed to examine the issue of symphysiotomy and her report was to be completed in eight weeks but neither report has been published. In a letter to Teachta Adams on 15 May, the Taoiseach said that the Minister for Health would submit his proposals to the Government in a few weeks but that was three weeks ago. When will the Minister submit his proposals to Government and when can we expect the Government to decide on its response?

In regard to the forthcoming health reform Bill, will the Minister confirm if this legislation will reinstate discretionary medical cards to all those who need them and who have had them removed?

I am afraid we cannot discuss the content of proposed Bills.

Families across the State have been put through unnecessary hardship and this is an opportunity to clarify if this legislation will result in medical cards being handed back.

When is that Bill due?

It is due later this session. I will ask the Minister for Health to revert to the Deputy in regard to the position on the work of Judge Murphy.