Gerard Craughwell (Independent) | Oireachtas source

One of the phrases in the Minister's speech is telling. He referred to "incorporating new evidence which demonstrates the cost-effectiveness of the drug, by offering a reduced price or both". When one hears that, it becomes clear that the issue is price. Many eminent speakers in the House have referred to the fact that this drug facilitates some degree of recovery in people.

The Minister also mentioned the walking time for 25 feet. I doubt that we are expecting people with MS to run marathons, but if we can get them on their feet it is surely a benefit. The number of people in the country who will benefit from this drug is approximately 1,000. That is a cost to the Exchequer of approximately €4 million, which is not massive. My colleague referred to side effects. I am on Lipitor and there are side effects to that. I am also on aspirin, which has side effects. That did not stop a doctor prescribing them for me.

I ask the Minister to consider approaching the drug company. The trial period is very short. Within two weeks it is established whether the drug will be of benefit to a patient. Perhaps the Minister would engage with the drug company on a cost sharing methodology that might be used so that only those people who will benefit from the drug will be funded on it.

Finally, with regard to health economics, if we can improve people's walking we can prevent situations where people find themselves in accident and emergency departments as a result of a fall. There is a reduction in the demand for wheelchairs, wheelchair access vehicles and so forth. There is also a reduction in the need for carers. When the pricing for this drug is being considered, is that built into the economic model on which that depends?

I will conclude as other speakers wish to contribute.