Victor Boyhan (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I second the motion. I will be brief. I thank Senator Norris for using Private Members' time to discuss this important issue. I welcome the Martin family and their children. I also welcome the Minister and note the importance he has afforded this debate by being present.

The motion seeks, in the context of the heel-prick test administered to newborn babies, to increase the number of disorders tested for from eight to 40 in order that doctors might identify potential illnesses that could possibly be cured or curtailed if diagnosed at an early stage. The campaign, as Senator Norris stated, is being pursued by the Martin family on behalf of their son, Cathal, and others. Cathal is terminally ill with metachromatic leukodystrophy. I understand that the Minister has met the family and that he is sympathetic and generally supportive of an increase in the level of testing. I hope he will inform the House that he is not going to oppose the motion.

This motion is important. As Senator Norris stated, every citizen in Italy has the right to be screened at birth for all conditions for which there are feasible treatments. It is my hope that we can apply this in an Irish context. I look forward to hearing the Minister's response.