IRELAND
RTE News
The Government is to give effect to Judge John Quirke’s recommendation that the special medical card be awarded to survivors of Magdalene Laundries and similar institutions.
Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald said that under legislation before the House, the Magdalene women would receive medical services equivalent to those provided to the holders of the unique Health Amendment Act Card for victims of Hepatitis C contracted from blood products.
The minister was speaking on the second stage of the Redress for Women Resident in Certain Institutions Bill 2014.
Fianna Fáil Justice Spokesman Niall Collins said the proposals as outlined did not fully reflect those recommended under the Quirke scheme, which included full pension rights and an enhanced medical card.
He said this was a shame and a lost opportunity, given the indefinite incarceration and grave breach of the human rights of the women involved.
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