Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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Question 375: To ask the Minister for Health and Children when she will implement the recommendations set out in the report of the working group set up by her in March 2006 to examine the nature and extent of haemochromatosis here and to advise her on the action necessary to address the problems caused by haemochromatosis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14484/07]

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 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. A clinician has been appointed to one of the IBTS clinics to oversee the pilot programme.

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 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 of the condition among both clinicians and patients. It is in discussion with the Irish College of General Practitioners. It has 900 people on its database and has just produced an updated information booklet which is being circulated to all members.