Aengus Ó Snodaigh (Dublin South Central, Sinn Fein)

In a previous answer to me in respect of similar questions, the Minister stated that "three members of the Defence Forces had been treated for serious symptoms which may have been caused or contributed to by Lariam". He also noted there was a further cohort of seven personnel with less dramatic symptoms. The questions being debated pertain to suicide and there has been an obligation since 2003 on the Defence Forces to refer any adverse reaction to the Irish Medicines Board. In particular, the fact that suicide and suicide ideation was added to the safety literature in respect of Lariam in 2003 means the Defence Forces should be on high alert for any suicide. The mere fact that the victim was either taking or had taken Lariam in the past should have resulted in a suspected adverse drug reaction report to the Irish Medicines Board. My question is whether all such cases have been referred to the Irish Medicines Board. Moreover, if the Defence Forces have not compiled and are not compiling data on suicide, can the Minister instruct them to so do and to ensure that, in particular, cases in which Lariam had been taken are flagged to the Irish Medicines Board?

Is the Minister aware of the report of the Permanent Defence Force on suicide and turning the tide of suicide? Between 2001-06 there were 15 suicides of serving members. There is a question regarding whether Lariam has an effect among those who have left the Defence Forces.

Would the Minister agree to meet former members - I know there is a problem with meeting current serving members - of the Defence Forces who have highlighted issues regarding Lariam to see whether their concerns are based on fact? It would be helpful to the group that has now formed which is examining these issues. The US military and other militaries have stopped using Lariam specifically because there are concerns about suicide and other adverse effects.

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