Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this matter. Substantial additional funding was provided in the budget to deal with approval of new medicines, but there are procedures through which those medicines must be approved. That is enshrined in legislation that was passed by these Houses. Those procedures must be followed. We will keep a very close eye on this and ensure these matters are progressed as quickly as possible. I understand, in the context of rare diseases, orphan drugs are very often the only lifeline for people in alleviating the distress that such conditions can cause. I will look into this and speak with the Minister about it.

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