Challenge to redress scheme called off

A challenge to a new redress scheme, for survivors of a controversial surgical procedure on women, is unlikely to proceed following clarification on the rights of those who may no longer have the mental capacity to apply for it, the High Court heard.

The challenge was brought on behalf of two survivors of the symphysiotomy procedure carried out mainly in the 1960s on women during childbirth.

It was claimed the women, both aged in their 80s, lack the necessary mental capacity to make applications for compensation under the Surgical Symphysiotomy Payment Scheme (SSPS) and the imposition of a December 5 deadline discriminated against them.