Sir, - We are concerned about the decision of the Fitness to Practice Committee of the Medical Council to hold the upcoming child sexual abuse enquiry in public. In the history of the Medical Council, this is unprecedented.
The courts hold a strong view that cases involving children should not be held in public. This is even more so in the case of alleged sexual abuse. Such cases are always held in camera. While it is important that any alleged infringement of the rights of the fathers should be taken seriously, this should not be at the expense of the childrens' rights to confidentiality. Dr Woods is being forced to disclose sensitive clinical material concerning these children - her patients. This is wholly unacceptable.
We would call on the Medical Council to reverse this decision and revert to previous normal practice. - Yours, etc.,
Dublin Meath Cavan