SINN Féin Councillor Sandra Duffy has welcomed assurances from the Department of Health that the suspension of controversial mesh implants will remain in place here.
The party’s health spokesperson commenting after a Sinn Féin delegation met with the department’s Permanent Secretary and senior clinicians.
She said “Recently the institute for clinical excellence (NICE) recommended lifting the suspension on the use of mesh while stating that the long-term complications were unknown.
“At that time we raised our concerns for patient safety relating to the NICE advice with the Department and the Human Rights Commission and we reiterated that today.
“The Department of Health have confirmed that having received our submission and correspondence from the Human Rights Commissioner that the suspension will not be lifted in the north of Ireland.
“We also secured a commitment that they would consider the possibility of involving international expertise in the removal of mesh implants for women who require it here.
“It is vital that women here suffering as a result of mesh implants have access to the highest standard of care when it comes to mesh removal procedures.
“This means all options regarding the developing of mesh removal expertise needs to be considered to ensure affected women get the treatment they deserve,” added Cllr Duffy.
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