Harney holds key to resolving medical cover row

THERE were hopes last night of a breakthrough in the long-running dispute between consultants and the Department of Health over insurance cover.

The Irish Hospital Consultants Association (IHCA) yesterday sent a letter to Minister for Health Mary Harney asking her for a written statement confirming that consultants will be covered against claims of past negligence.

The British-based Medical Defence Union is in dispute with the Department of Health over who is responsible for outstanding negligence claims against obstetricians once the Government takes over the insurance of doctors under its State indemnity scheme.