Niall Collins (Limerick County, Fianna Fail)

As previously referenced, in July 2024 an enhanced package for health and social care supports for thalidomide survivors was announced. That included prioritised and simplified access to local health and social care professionals, access to therapies, both clinical and holistic, independent living supports to include housing adaptations, car adaptations and home supports, annual health assessments and a free travel pass. As the Deputy will be aware, there is a thalidomide resolution process under way facilitated by Judge Paul Gilligan. It would not be appropriate for me to comment on that process at this time.

Separately, the German Grünenthal Foundation has confirmed that since 2013 it has accepted applications from individuals for compensation for thalidomide-related injury. It is open to any Irish person to apply to the foundation for assessment of their disability as being attributable to thalidomide. Additionally any Irish person who establishes that their injury is attributable to thalidomide will continue to be offered appropriate supports by the Government commensurate with those currently provided to Irish thalidomide survivors. Support for this assessment process is available for anybody who wishes to be assessed.

The Deputy also raised a proper acknowledgement and apology and the process taking too long and the lack of compensation. I will convey the sentiments he raised here with both the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste.

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