John Moloney (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

First, the extension of medical card cover is not a consideration. To reaffirm the point raised by Deputy Doyle, I reiterate the importance of a register that would give value. The issue of a neurologist specifically designated for that purpose is one I am considering. I would hope to meet Deputies Doyle, Ó Caoláin and their colleagues again in the coming weeks.

The point concerning clinical trials arose at the meeting with the representatives. I pointed out that we have no identifiable lead clinician or investigator willing or able to co-ordinate the protocols of a trial. Without trying to hide behind that response, the reality is that until such time as we can identify somebody who would take up that role, we are stuck in regard to dealing with the clinical side in Ireland. As Members will be aware, at the last meeting I gave certain commitments by way of dealing with the need to upgrade and add importance to the register.

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