Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have reminded the Deputy on numerous occasions that one of the reasons Lariam is no longer manufactured here is that Roche pulled out of Ireland for economic reasons. Medical policy in the Defence Forces is monitored constantly and reviewed when deemed appropriate. I understand the Deputy's point regarding the Private Members' motion but it would be irresponsible of me as Minister of State for Defence to go against the medical advice I am being given by the professionals within the Defence Forces. The director of the medical branch, DMB, advises the general staff on matters of medical policy in the Defence Forces. His instructions further provide policy guidelines on medical and ethical issues in the Defence Forces and to medical officers. Medical officers in the Defence Forces operate in accordance with the Medical Council's Guide to Professional Conduct and Ethics for Registered Medical Practitioners. We are working in line with the UN and the WHO.

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