Simon Harris ‘not ruling out’ significant cancer tests redress package

Health Minister Simon Harris is “not ruling out” a multimillion-euro cervical cancer tests compensation scheme despite confirming cabinet will not fast-track the redress packages at its meeting today.

Speaking to reporters last night amid growing concern over the scale of the fallout, Mr Harris said it is vital the Government establish all facts of the case first before deciding how to help those affected.

However, despite saying “I’m not ruling out” a compensation scheme for those affected in the future, he indicated the Cabinet is not in favour of the move at this stage by saying he is “only one minister” and the entirety of the Government “will decide how to respond”.