Michael D'Arcy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for her clarification that the process is ongoing and that subsequent to its evaluation, a pricing conversation will be held with the manufacturer. However, I would like to hear her view. I am glad that she has come to the House to respond on this issue because I am aware of her role in the use of Kalydeco and the benefits to be gained from using it. If Orkambi can do what is said it can, I ask her to ensure an early and favourable decision is made on the issue. By all accounts, people suffering from cystic fibrosis could benefit enormously in terms of their quality of life. The Minister of State has been involved in a similar issue previously and I would like to hear her personal view in this instance which would be appreciated. She has said she has a close personal friend who is suffering.

I find it distasteful that before Christmas a Member of this House effectively misled people on this matter. There was a conversation about Commencement matters and a vote was taken. However, the message was sent that the use of Orkambi had been discussed in this Chamber, that we had voted on the matter and that Members on one side of the House had voted against making the drug available. That is reprehensible and not the way we normally do business. We should not and cannot go down the route of playing politics with people's illnesses. Many people were misled.