Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Workers and Unemployed Action Group) | Oireachtas source

Parents should be made aware in as full a way as possible of both the positives and the negatives that we are aware of in its regard. On that basis, I would be concerned that the patient information leaflet is not available to parents. I hear what has been said about the reason for that but I do not see it as being acceptable. If the leaflet is available it should be made available to parents. Even at this late stage, it should be made available to parents who have daughters coming into this scheme. I would like some further explanation from the medical officials on that area.

I would like clarification on the current position on the monitoring of incidents. I take it there is not a legal requirement. What requirement, if any, is there that doctors should inform the Department on what they believe are adverse effects of this vaccine and to what extent is there ongoing monitoring of the position at departmental level? In this regard, what link have we with other countries internationally? Denmark and Japan have been mentioned. Is there any communication between ourselves and these countries on this matter and is there any understanding as to why Denmark should advise an alternative and Japan should recommend against this? It would appear a bit incongruous that First World countries would have this view about the vaccine. Is there an ongoing communication and linkage internationally in this regard?

The other question that arises is the area of communication between REGRET and the Department and the HSE. At what stage are those communications or are there any communications, or are there any proposals for communications in the future? Are there any proposals for any schemes to support the families and the individual girls who are affected? Are there any discussions in relation to a compensation scheme? Are there any treatment plans for the girls affected? What is the general level of communication between REGRET and the families who are affected by this and the Department and the HSE?