Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 394: To ask the Minister for Defence the position in relation to a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16453/08]

Jimmy Deenihan (Kerry North, Fine Gael)
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Question 396: To ask the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the concerns expressed by some medical practitioners about the side effects of a drug (details supplied) which will be used by the Irish mission to Chad especially its neuropsychiatric side effects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16515/08]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos.394 and 396 together.

The drug in question is considered one of the most effective anti-malaria drugs for the type of malaria our troops are exposed to in Chad and C.A.R. Troops being administered the drug are informed of its effects and its use is closely monitored by the military medical authorities. The Military Authorities have assured me that they are fully aware of the drug's neuropsychiatric effects.