Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The programme for Government claims, and the Minister for Health has repeatedly stated, that addressing waiting lists in our health services is a priority for Government. However, there is no waiting list more distressing than that of children who await approval for access to a drug that will help them secure a longer life. As we meet on this last day before the Christmas recess, this morning I have received further communication from parents relating to their distressing circumstance, recounting how their child continues to deteriorate physically from spinal muscular atrophy.

Different Deputies have raised this issue but it is very important that, in the month of Christmas, some real hope is provided rather than there being a notion that it will be addressed in the coming year. Each year that passes is further torment for the parents and children involved.

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