Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. In my comments and those of the Minister there was reference to timing, which is of the utmost importance. Time is of the essence. I spoke to Peter's wife earlier today. That man is in a private hospital currently and I cannot understand why the drug cannot be administered there. It has been approved by the HSE and time is most important. A special effort must be made for a number of patients in a similar position to that of Peter. It was stated the process would take some weeks and it might happen by the end of September. I appeal to the Minister to use his good office to ensure the timeframe will not be extended further in facilitating Peter's treatment with nivo. He and his concerned family desperately need it.

Many others have contacted me over the past number of weeks on behalf of the family. I am speaking about Peter this evening and I am sure many other families or people around the country are in a similar position, pleading for treatment like this Milne family in Sligo. It should happen as quickly as possible. I appeal to the Minister to use his good office and ensure we can reduce the timeframe as much as possible so the drug can be administered to this man and many others.

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