Brian Stanley (Laois, Independent)

Yesterday, we had a well-attended presentation from SMA Ireland in the AV room. Its priority is to secure access to the life-changing treatments and medicines for people with spinal muscular atrophy issues. We were told this is caused due to a loss of motor neuron nerve cells. It is an important issue. SMA can have life-limiting effects. It can cause difficulty for swallowing, breathing, walking, etc., and some of these people are confined to wheelchairs. The HSE approved three treatments a number of years ago, but it imposed an age limit. Those who were aged over 18 at the time were excluded.

However, those aged 14, 15 or 16 at the time got the treatment. Some of them may be over 18 years of age now - they could be 20, 22 or 23 - and still be getting the treatment. Other EU countries do not have that restriction. England does not. Only approximately 20 adults in the State need this.

See this speech in context