Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

We addressed muscular dystrophy in the House in May of this year, including an address of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. A number of specific areas were identified as being in need of address. What steps have been taken to progress the needs of people suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy and muscular dystrophy generally? The shortage of neurologists has been highlighted in part, as well as the need for enhanced support for neurology in the national centre, which is Beaumont Hospital, the need for enhanced Government support for Duchenne muscular dystrophy research and, lastly, the need for greater support for muscular dystrophy sufferers, particularly given the outlay they must expend annually in regard to the hire of ventilators to assist their breathing, which is expensive and is not covered by medical cards. Is consideration being given to extend medical card entitlement to all those suffering from muscular dystrophy, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy?

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