Marcella Corcoran Kennedy (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

I welcome the opportunity to contribute on this technical Bill, which transfers the procurement of national factor concentrates from the Irish Blood Transfusion Service, IBTS, to St. James's Hospital, which is home to the national haemophilia centre. The administrative arrangements have already been put in place in expectation of the legislation, which is an indication of the level of importance attached to Bill. I understand that all key stakeholders have been consulted and are in agreement on the matter. I hope that this will ensure a smooth transition to the new arrangements.

Those of us who have normal clotting blood usually do not spend much time thinking about haemophilia or other blood coagulation disorders. However, according to the Irish Haemophilia Society, more than 2,000 people in Ireland live with these challenging conditions and need access to clotting concentrates. Thankfully, ongoing research and development has meant that essential life-saving medicine is available to them, improving their quality of life and increasing their lifespans.

Figures for the past three years show an annual spend of approximately €40 million for factors VIII and IX. While we recognise the need for this medicine, we also need to maintain the best possible product for patients at the best possible price. A national system of procurement that removes the commission paid to the IBTS will ensure vital savings are made in the health services.

Transferring procurement should increase cost effectiveness and efficiencies for the State, the hospital and, ultimately, the patient. Most patients are treated at St. James's Hospital. As the medicines in question are not blood-based, it is appropriate that a hospital should procure and dispense them. It is also important to note that all contracts with the IBTS will continue at St. James's Hospital. The legislation changes the hospital's functions in no way.

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