Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 701: To ask the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 751 of 27 September 2006, the progress to date on implementing the recommendations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1391/07]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Working Group that I established to examine the nature and extent of haemochromatosis and to advise on the actions necessary to address problems caused by haemochromatosis presented its report to me in June, 2006.

A key issue highlighted in the report was that blood from persons with haemochromatosis was being not being used by the Irish Blood Transfusion Service(IBTS). The IBTS has re-examined its policy on this issue and has decided to establish a pilot venesection programme for haemochromatosis patients in one of its clinics. Subject to the usual screening protocols, blood from haemochromatosis patients will be used by the IBTS. It is anticipated that the programme will commence in the coming months.

Arising from the publication of the report, the Irish Insurance Federation has agreed to investigate any complaint about life or health insurance cover linked to diagnosis with haemochromatosis.

My Department has asked the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Health Service Executive to advise the Deputy of progress that it has made in relation to the recommendations relevant to its area of responsibility.

The Irish Haemochromatosis Association, for its part, continues to increase awareness among both clinicians and patients of the issues related to the condition.