The group that represents former patients of the Drogheda surgeon Michael Shine has expressed disappointment and anger at the news the investigation into his conduct will not be published.
Minister for Health Mary Harney told the Dáil that the report by retired High Court Judge TC Smyth would not be published because of possible criminal prosecutions.
In 2003, Mr Shine was acquitted in Dundalk Circuit Criminal Court on charges of indecently assaulting male patients.
Five years later, the Medical Council found him guilty of a number of charges including indecent assault.
He was struck of the register of medical practitioners.
Last year, Ms Harney announced she was appointing Judge Smyth to review issues surrounding Mr Shine and his work in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda.
The retired judge heard evidence this year from a number of former patients and was due to finalise his report around the summer.
However, Ms Harney told the Dáil earlier this week that his report will not be published on the advice of the judge because of possible criminal prosecutions.
There are a number of civil cases pending against Mr Shine, while garda investigations into complaints are continuing.
The group, which represents many of Mr Shine's former patients, has expressed deep anger at the news and the way it was announced.
Dignity 4 Patients say the State was well aware of the investigations before they ordered the judge's probe and they should not prevent the release of his report.
It is expected they will meet Ms Harney next week to discuss the issue.
