, Cabinet Minister for
Health and Care: The Welsh Government remains committed to
supporting those affected by the Infected Blood scandal and
recognises the profound and lifelong impact it has had on
individuals and their families. We continue to work closely with
the UK Government, the Infected Blood Compensation Authority
(IBCA), the Wales Infected Blood Support Scheme (WIBSS), and
representatives of the infected blood community to help ensure
that compensation is delivered as swiftly and fairly as
possible.
Responsibility for Recommendation 1 Compensation' is with the UK
Government, and the administration of the Infected Blood
Compensation Scheme sits with the IBCA, which is a UK-wide body.
The Welsh Government's assessment is that progress has been made
in establishing the scheme and commencing compensation payments;
however, we recognise the concerns expressed by many affected
beneficiaries regarding the pace at which claims are being
processed and payments made. IBCA has itself acknowledged the
need to continue increasing the speed and scale of delivery while
maintaining confidence in the process.
Officials are in regular contact with UK Government counterparts
and with IBCA on matters relating to compensation and support for
our beneficiaries. We continue to seek assurance that the scheme
is operating effectively and that our claimants can access the
support they need throughout the claims process. We also
emphasise the importance of ongoing engagement with affected
communities and representative organisations.
I am aware of concerns raised recently and I have written to
, Minister for the
Cabinet Office, regarding delays in the compensation process and
aspects of claim administration. We understand the frustration of
those who have already waited decades for recognition and
redress. Where concerns are raised with us, they are shared with
the UK Government, including IBCA at officials' regular meetings,
this ensures that claimants' experiences inform the continuing
development of the scheme.
The Welsh Government remains committed to ensuring that those
affected receive both compensation and wider support without
unnecessary delay. Through WIBSS, support continues to be
available to our beneficiaries, while compensation arrangements
are delivered through IBCA.
We fully recognise that no amount of compensation can undo the
harm caused by this scandal. Nevertheless, it is essential that
those infected and affected receive the compensation, recognition
and support to which they are entitled, and the Welsh Government
will continue to press for progress towards that aim.
