Haemophilia sufferers who have contracted HIV through contaminated blood products made by or distributed in the State are to take legal action against the Minister for Health.
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Members of the Irish Haemophilia Society (IHS) will take legal proceedings seeking to overturn the terms of a 1991 settlement, which the society claims the Government has recognised is unfair.
The plans for legal proceedings against Mr Michael Martin and other parties will be finalised at the society’s AGM this weekend in Portumna. Those involved have indicated they will issue one writ every week between now and the general election.
Speaking in advance of the AGM, Administrator of the IHS, Ms Rosemary Daly crticised the Minister for failing to meet commitments to families of those that have already died as a result of the tragedy.
"The Minister has failed to meet his commitments in terms of adequately compensating people with haemophilia who have contracted HIV from contaminated blood products," said Ms Daly.
"These victims were promised action in February 1999 . . . the Government has dragged its heels on this issue and we are still awaiting promised legislation to allow for fair and equitable compensations for HIV victims".