05/06/2009

Penicuik Pensioner Petitions Parliament

A Penicuik pensioner who is campaigning to have new rules introduced for patients who suffered medical negligence before the National Health Service was established has received a “sympathetic hearing” from MSPs at Parliament this week. 73 year old James McNeill was given a massive x-ray overdose on his right hand in 1942 when he was just six years old. The result has left him in agony for most of his life and requiring several corrective operations. SNP MSP Christine Grahame who is backing Mr McNeill’s campaign said:

“The Petitions Committee gave Mr McNeill a sympathetic hearing when his petition was considered earlier this week. A letter has now been sent to Scottish Ministers asking for their views on a range of issues that have emerged as a result of Mr McNeill’s petitions. I am certain Scottish Ministers will give the issue serious consideration."

Mr McNeill added:
"I am hoping that if this succeeds it might help others who have the same problem. People make mistakes and things can go wrong, but I am seeking a duty of care and responsibility for the damage that was done.

"Just because it was pre-1948 shouldn't mean anything. There ought to be a moral obligation for me to receive some help."

SNP It’s time.....