CervicalCheck tribunal
Deputy Ó Snodaigh asked whether the Government had approved a tribunal for CervicalCheck cases and when legislation would follow. The Minister said the person-centred approach was welcomed, a further recommendation to Government was expected within four weeks, and the House would be kept informed.
There has been a proposal in recent days that a tribunal be established to deal with the cases of women affected by the CervicalCheck controversy and which lives up to what the Taoiseach promised, and that the cases be dealt with through mediation and not in the courts. I understand that those affected have given a cautious welcome to the Meenan report. Has the Government signed off on this proposal to have a tribunal? If so, when will the legislation required to establish such a tribunal be brought before the Dáil, given the urgency of the matter?
Comment on this
I acknowledge the welcome that has been given not only by Government but also by Members of this House and people outside it to this person-centred way forward. It will be fast and effective. I cannot say for definite when the legislation will be brought forward. The Minister, Deputy Harris, is engaging across other Departments. It is his aim to have a further initiative in the form of a recommendation to Government within four weeks. I am sure he would be happy to keep the House fully informed of developments over that period. I acknowledge the importance of the report and the work of Mr. Justice Charles Meenan in this regard.
