366 apply for awards under redress programme

Over 360 applications have been made to the Government’s symphysiotomy redress scheme, despite it being sharply criticised by national and international human rights bodies.

Following the passing of the deadline for applications yesterday afternoon, assessor for the scheme Judge Maureen Harding Clark reported that 366 applications have been made for awards.

It is estimated that about 1,500 women underwent symphysiotomies between 1940 and 1984 in Irish hospitals and about 350 of these are still alive. Women who avail of the scheme can get tax-free awards at three levels: €50,000, €100,000, and €150,000.