Symphysiotomy survivors feel ‘vindicated by UN verdict’

The Survivors of Symphysiotomy group, who have steadfastly refused to subscribe to redress schemes suggested by the Government, described themselves as "vindicated" by a UN report which called for an independent and thorough investigation into the practice and fair and adequate compensation.

Marie O’Connor, chairwoman of Survivors of Symphysiotomy, said: “Today’s verdict from the UN Human Rights Committee is a damning one. It fully vindicates our campaign for truth and justice and exposes the State’s failure to date to provide an effective remedy for this breach of human rights.”

“Serious questions have been raised over the so-called redress scheme. We are calling for an urgent meeting with the minister for health to discuss our core demands, which have now received strong backing from the UN.