Séamus Healy (Tipperary South, Workers and Unemployed Action Group)
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I extend my sympathy to Ms Sloan on the tragic passing of her daughter, Emma. I thank her and member of her family for showing such bravery in appearing before the committee to explain to members the current position in respect of the EpiPen and treatment. I also thank our other witnesses.

The clinicians who spoke painted a picture for us when they noted that the condition is treatable and the events that occurred were avoidable.

That is the tragedy of the situation we are currently facing. We must, as a matter of emergency, put in place structures, procedures and resources to ensure that what happened to Ms Sloan and her family does not happen to any other family. This is very a straightforward, black and white issue and there is no confusion as to what needs to be done. It is about putting the procedures in place to ensure these devices are included in every first aid box in every pharmacy, voluntary organisation, workplace, restaurant and so on in the country. Every member of this committee wants to see that happen sooner rather than later. I agree with Deputy Catherine Byrne that we should take this issue directly to the Minister to ensure the structures and procedures are put in place without further delay to prevent any further tragedies. We are told here and elsewhere on a regular basis about the lack of resources we are facing, but this issue must be a priority.

I conclude by extending my sympathies once again to Ms Sloan and assuring her that we will pressurise the Minister and the Department to put in place the procedures necessary to prevent the same tragedy befalling another family.