Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I raised the issue of the disparity between the HSE regions in terms of access to specific drugs, to which Mr. O'Mahony did not respond. I cited the drug Tysabri and I would like to know if the IMB has any role or function in this regard. It is hugely important that people have access across the board and that there is equal access in every region irrespective of where one lives.

On the point in regard to the chart and the relationships between the various organisations, I do not know who would undertake to put that in place. The IMB might consider that.

The 2005 directive on blood and blood products is one of the elements of the IMB's work programme. To follow up on Deputy Healy's question, it is sadly the case here, although not in other jurisdictions, including in the United States, that blood taken in venesections of those who have haemochromatosis is disposed of - it is literally discarded - yet their blood is rich in iron, which is the problem. Many other people go to the pharmacy to buy over-the-counter medications to substitute their deficiencies in iron. There is no reason this could not be addressed. It is wasteful. There is a cost involved and the international best practice should be applied here. Will the IMB play a role in that?