Question from Deputy Robert O'Donoghue - PQ 27756-26

To ask the Minister for Health her views on whether informed consent is a fundamental patient right and one of the key protections available within the healthcare system which has also been recognised in decisions of the European Court of Human Rights; her further views on whether informed consent is a fundamental right and, in non-emergency situations, should be clearly distinguished from medical judgement; if so, if she will communicate her position to the Ombudsman; and if she will make a statement on the matter.