Cutbacks hit the most vulnerable

THE thought of children in need of chemotherapy being turned away from Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children because of bed and staff shortages is too heart-rending for words.

Once more, Government cuts are hitting some of the most vulnerable in society. The children at the centre of this appalling scenario are clinging to life.

There is an overwhelming case to prioritise investment in the Children’s Hospital. Otherwise, if the required doses are not administered when recommended, the outcome could be bleak.

Meanwhile, it is equally hard not to sympathise with hepatitis C sufferers following yesterday’s refusal by the Health Minister Micheál Martin to change the rules governing the tribunal set up to compensate disease sufferers.

Not for the first time, the State stands accused of rejecting genuine claims for a review of compensation awarded several years ago to victims now at risk of not being able to provide for their families.

While Mr Martin contends all medical costs will be met by the State, the Irish Haemophilia Society argues that the condition of some of its members who accepted awards in the late 1990s has now deteriorated to the point where a review is warranted. Mr Martin should reverse his decision.