As the case referred to by the Deputy is before the High Court and is subject to in-camera proceedings I am limited in the information that I can provide. The Department has, however, been advised that the process is nearing completion.
While I have every sympathy for the patients affected by this situation, consumer law is the responsibility of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE), and so issues relating to the refunding of fees are not within the remit of the Department of Health.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is the statutory body responsible for promoting compliance with, and enforcing, competition and consumer protection law in Ireland and are best placed to advise on any concerns regarding refunding of professional fees.