Government defends strategy on nursing home charges

The statement came as TDs were told they must wait a week before debating the allegations, despite 'emergency sessions' being sought

Government leaders have defended the legal strategy on historic nursing home charges, dismissing claims they were involved in a State policy to deny refunds to people illegally charged for care. 

They moved tonight to distance themselves from allegations the State deliberately denied payment of up to €12bn in refunds to people illegally charged nursing home fees.