Phelan to receive an honorary doctorate

TERMINALLY ill Vicky Phelan will be conferred with an honorary doctorate in recognition of her “exceptional commitment to improving women’s healthcare in Ireland”.

Last April, Ms Phelan settled a €2.5m action against a US laboratory which had provided her with an incorrect smear test result, prompting the national CervicalCheck scandal.

A spokeswoman for the University of Limerick said: “In recognition of her exceptional commitment to improving women’s healthcare in Ireland, University of Limerick will confer Vicky Phelan with an honorary doctorate.”

Ms Phelan, a graduate and former employee of UL, “has shown tremendous courage and determination since her diagnosis of terminal cervical cancer”, the university’s spokeswoman added.

“Erudite, articulate and forthright, Vicky has contributed to uncovering a scandal which has affected the lives of hundreds of women and their families, and in doing so has given immeasurable service to the women of this country.

“As a result of her dedication to helping other people in similar circumstances, an investigation of the shortcomings of the current system is taking place so that, in future, Ireland will have the benefit of a service corresponding to the highest international standards.”

The presentation will be made to Ms Phelan at the Irish World Academy, UL, on Tuesday, June 26.