Government accused of reneging on thalidomide compensation pledge

The Government has today been accused of "weaselling out" of a compensation deal for the victims of thalidomide.

The Irish Thalidomide Association said that it is now initiating what could be costly legal action against the State.

Under the terms of the Programme for Government, the Coalition committed to reopening talks with the aim of further compensation for thalidomide victims.

The Irish Thalidomide Association is now accusing the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and the Government of "weaselling out of that commitment".

The group said that all discussions with the Coalition have now ceased and that members are now initiating individual legal actions against the State.

"I hold the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and the Government responsible for the present failures in the Irish State's position," said Maggie Woods, chair of Irish Thalidomide Association.

"In the week when I should be celebrating the huge achievement of surviving to reach 50, and all that life has thrown at me, I am still here fighting for justice."

The 32 survivors of the anti-morning sickness drug given to their mothers say that they don't want to hear any more about gestures of compensation or sitting down to talk about healthcare needs.

They have demanded a deal on a legal, statutory footing.