Dan Neville (Limerick, Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State for her reply. I echo the words of Dr. Tony Holohan, the chief medical officer, that vaccination is very safe and it is important the current vaccination programme continues to protect children and adults against the serious consequences of preventable diseases. This is a very rare thing and people should continue to have a high level of confidence in our vaccination programmes.

I recognise the work of the campaign group, Sufferers of Unique Narcolepsy Disorder, SOUND, which represents 40 children it believes have been affected to ensure their needs are taken seriously.

There is concern in regard to this indemnification by the State in terms of the difficulties that have arisen and the cost to the taxpayer in respect of the services now required. Perhaps the Minister of State will outline the decision making process in terms of the Minister's indemnification of the suppliers from damages in respect of any claims, which is now an issue. While the number of people affected is not high, those affected will suffer severely for the remainder of their lives. Perhaps the Minister of State will comment on the reason for the State's indemnification of the suppliers and the implications of this as set out in the report.

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