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Prime Minister Meets with the Representatives of
Plaintiffs in Lawsuits related to Hepatitis Contraction through Blood Products
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Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda met with the representatives of plaintiffs in lawsuits related to hepatitis contraction through blood products at the Prime Minister's Official Residence.
At the meeting, Prime Minister Fukuda extended his apologies to the representatives, saying, "We have caused you tremendous hardship both mentally and physically over a period of years. I would like to take this opportunity to offer my heartfelt apologies." He further spoke of the development that had led to the announcement of "uniform compensation," saying, "It has been my sincere wish to resolve this issue as soon as possible. It turns out that uniform compensation was not feasible within the framework of the settlement talks which had been elaborated by the Osaka High Court since September. We have come to take the latest measure in a belief that in order to respond to the compelling thoughts of each of you, the only solution would be a legislative approach in a framework transcending the judiciary and the administration." He then referred to the lawmaker-initiated legislation, saying, "I will do my best to support the legislation process so that the legislation will pass the Diet at the earliest day possible." Ms. Michiko Yamaguchi, the representative of the nationwide plaintiff group, said in response, "We have finally been able to reach to talk with you, Prime Minister. When a lawmaker-initiated legislation we seek is approved and this hepatitis issue is completely resolved, please meet with each one of us plaintiffs. We would greatly appreciate your consideration to that matter." |