Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I accept that this has been going on for a long time, and I would be interested to hear directly from the Deputy about the failure to respond to emails so that I can pursue that matter. He has separated the two issues. The broader reimbursement issue for patients beyond the 19 on the trial is a matter of, in the first instance, the company submitting an application. I am open to correction, but the information available to me from the HSE is that that has not yet happened. If such an application is received, it will be assessed in accordance with the laws passed in these Houses. The case of those 19 patients on the trial is a distinct issue. I am in full agreement with the Deputy in that regard. I do not believe that people can be on a clinical trial for such a long time with the company then deciding one day to no longer provide the drug. Those people are left in an unenviable and difficult position. I am pleased that progress is being made and that the draft terms of agreement are now in place and with the company for review. As a result of this question, I will check with the HSE on the timeline for the conclusion of the terms of agreement.

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