Ritchie challenges Health Minister on blood contamination settlement
SDLP MP for South Down, Margaret Ritchie, has challenged the Public Health Minister to commit to a full and final settlement for the victims of blood contaminated products by the end of this financial year.
Ritchie was speaking after the Minister’s announcement that the much awaited consultation will be further delayed until January.
Speaking to Newry Times, Ritchie said, “The announcement by the Minister Jane Ellison that the consultation on compensation for the victims of contaminated blood products will be pushed back yet again is deeply disappointing.
“In a letter she wrote to me on 6th November, the Minister assured me that the consultation would be published before the end of 2015. This announcement is deeply disheartening and frustrating for the victims of contaminated blood products and their relatives.
“They have been campaigning for a full and final compensation for a number of years and this news will leave them feeling let down by the Minister and the Government.”
Ritchie added, “My own constituent, Brian Carberry, who is a victim of this tragic incident has informed me that he has now developed cancer. Victims and families must see justice. I will not rest in my pursuit of this matter with the Minister and with the Health Department.”
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