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

The reason we have tabled these amendments is to respond in the first instance not only to the expert opinion that came before us last week from Epilepsy Ireland, including the eminent neuro-consultant who accompanied its representatives, Dr. Widdess-Walsh, but also because I have met, as I am sure is the case with Deputy Kelleher and other members here, and spoken with people who are registered epileptics. The advent of the substitution of anti-epileptic drugs, AEDs, creates not only a real concern for them but, in more than one instance where substitute generic alternatives have already applied, resulted in serious personal experiences on the part of that person. We cannot ignore that as elected members of this committee and of these Houses. That is the basis of our arguing the case. It is not about a possible charge on the Exchequer; it is about reflecting firmly and responsibly the concerns that have been made known to us.

I have read Standing Order 156(3), and I would argue that the interpretation here is too harsh, but it does not prohibit the Minister of State, Deputy White, taking action. My appeal to him is to recognise the validity of the concerns presented to us here in committee, and that have been made known to us over a period of time. We cannot ignore individual sufferers with whom we have engaged. My appeal to the Minister of State is that if the structures here are such that we will not be allowed press our amendments to seek their adoption, the Minister of State would adopt them and make them Government amendments to overcome this most regrettable obstacle.