Solicitors representing some of the Irish women who received faulty PIP breast implants have said new claims about potential risk to unborn children are “alarming” and could influence legal actions.

Taxpayers could face a bill of over €3m for the removal of faulty breast implants because a cosmetic surgery clinic who fitted them is not providing the care needed.

Women fitted with faulty silicone breast implants who need them removed will have the cost covered by the State.