Alliance Health spokesperson Paula Bradshaw MLA has welcomed moves to ensure spouses of those who have passed away as a result of the contaminated blood scandal also benefit from the Infected Blood Payment Scheme.

Health Minister Robin Swann announced the financial support move for those registered on the Infected Blood Payment Scheme who have not been infected by contaminated blood but have been left bereaved following the death of a spouse or partner who contracted Hepatitis C or HIV after receiving it.

“It is welcome the scheme has reached the second of three phases and that work is now complete on assessing the views and experiences of those sadly bereaved by the loss of a spouse or partner who received contaminated blood,” said South Belfast MLA Ms Bradshaw.

“It is important time has been taken to listen to what they have had to say, but also that payments will now be proceeding to them.

“We need to proceed with compensation in line with other parts of the UK but it is also vital we find appropriate ways of recognising the huge impact this sadly has had on those affected.”