Ahern reiterates govt apology to Neary patients

An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has reiterated his Government's apology for the suffering endured by women who had their wombs unnecessarily removed by Dr Michael Neary.

A report yesterday revealed the disgraced obstetrician carried out 129 hysterectomies at Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda between 1974 and 1998, when most doctors would only perform 10 or so in their entire careers.

The group representing some of the affected women is meeting the Tánaiste and Minister for Health Mary Harney today to demand compensation for their suffering from the State.

Speaking in the Dáil this morning, Mr Ahern said the Government was appalled by the situation and was "very sorry" for the suffering caused.

Meanwhile, the Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has promised to fully co-operate with the recommendations of yesterday's report.

The document recommended a range of measures to ensure obstetricians receive continuous education and training and are subject to regular assessments and audits.