Brendan Griffin (Kerry, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Leas-Cheann Comhairle for selecting this matter. I have tried to raise it on Topical Issues for three weeks, so I am very grateful to be able to speak.

I want to raise the cases of cystic fibrosis sufferers who hope to be able to avail of the drugs Kalydeco and Orkambi. These are important and groundbreaking drugs for cystic fibrosis sufferers and we need to ensure they are available to them in order to improve their quality of life and change their lives.

I understand that negotiations are ongoing between the HSE and the manufacturer. I want both parties to put the people who are in the middle first and ensure that everything possible will be done to ensure that these vitally important drugs will be made available to those who need them as soon as possible. Every day that goes by without these drugs being available to those who need them most, is a day too long. I have been contacted by many people living in Kerry, including parents and grandparents of children with cystic fibrosis. My colleague, Deputy Neville, whom I know cannot contribute to this debate, has informed me of the number of people in Limerick who are in the same situation.

We know the drugs are expensive and a lot of money is involved, but the results and prize are far too important. We need to pursue this issue. I want to know that everything that can possibly be done on behalf of these people is being done by the Department so that the drugs will be made available to them as soon as possible.

I ask the Minister of State to update us on the negotiations. We would be very grateful. Again, I cannot stress the urgency of the situation enough. It is vitally important.

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