Darragh O'Brien (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I wish to be associated with the Leader's remarks about our colleague, Senator Jimmy Harte, whom I wish health and happiness in his retirement. We all agree that he is an absolute gentleman. He is an avid sports fan, particularly soccer. He has had a rough couple of years and I hope his health will improve in retirement. We will certainly miss him in the Seanad where he played a very important role. I wish him all the best in his retirement.

I welcome Members back after the recess. On many occasions other Members and I have raised the issue of the availability of Fampyra, the multiple sclerosis, MS, drug that was withdrawn by the Government and the Health Service Executive, HSE, from 3,500 MS sufferers. I am pleased to advise the House that just two weeks ago I received correspondence from the HSE and the Minister for Health stating they had approved it. It will greatly assist the mobility of approximately 3,500 MS sufferers. It will improve their independence and allow many of them to return to work, which is to be welcomed, although, unfortunately, it took 18 months to convince the Department that this was the right thing to do. However, it has now been done and the House played a role in that regard. I am very pleased that it has happened.