Wednesday, September 29 1999

Sex change pair sue over side effects of operations

By Darwin Templeton

TWO transsexuals are suing an Ulster health board, claiming problems arising from sex change operations ruined their lives.

The pair, who received surgery to switch from male to female, are understood to be demanding total damages of more than £400,000.

And experts say the outcome of the cases could force a major re-think in the way health boards treat people who want to change gender.

The two were sent by the Eastern Health Board to Scotland for the operation - known as gender reassignment surgery - in 1990.

One, Barbara Barrett, is alleging she needed two more corrective operations and is still struggling to cope with the after-effects.

Formerly known as Bob, Ms Barrett (45) lived in Belfast and Enniskillen, but has now set up home in England.

When traced by the Belfast Telegraph, she said: “I can confirm I am taking legal action against the Eastern Board and named individuals.

“As a consequence of the treatment I have had severe physical, social and psychological problems.

“I would appeal for people to look beyond the nature of the operation and understand that there are wider issues involved.

“And I would ask the media to restrain their curiosity until the full details of the case emerge in court.”  A spokesperson for the board said: “Two cases for compensation have been taken against the board and other defendants.

“They are being taken by two individuals who underwent gender reorientation surgery nearly 10 years ago.

“The board has appointed solicitors and other advisors to deal with our defence.

“Because of the legal situation, we cannot comment any further.”  Papers have been lodged at the Court of Session, in Edinburgh and legal teams on both sides are formulating their cases, which will probably be heard next year.

It is estimated fewer than 10 people in Northern Ireland have had sex change operations.

Before being recommended for surgery, candidates undergo a lengthy assessment procedure.

They are seen by a psychiatrist and are usually asked to take a “real life test”, which involves living as their preferred gender for a period.

© Copyright Belfast Telegraph Newspapers Ltd.