Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Is it not extraordinary that the Defence Forces continue to use Lariam when the chairman of Roche, the company that manufactures it, has said its use against malaria is no longer necessary? Dr. Franz Humer is on record as saying science has advanced considerably since Lariam was introduced and that there are more effective anti-malarial drugs available with reduced side-effects. Surely the Defence Forces should be using such drugs. Lariam has been withdrawn from sale in Ireland. Its side-effects can be very severe and include anxiety, depression, paranoia and suicidal behaviour. Fifty serving and former members of the Defence Forces have lodged claims against the State, as Deputy Clare Daly mentioned. The Government is teeing itself up for further claims against the State. Legal proceedings have been served in 37 cases. Surely the game is up for Lariam.

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