Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 135: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the implementation of the recommendations of the report on haemochromotosis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28472/08]

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. A second clinic will open in D'Olier Street shortly. It is hoped that the scheme can expand to 10-12 clinics which could provide up to one sixth of national blood stock needs.

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.

I am pleased to inform you that I have granted €15,000 from my Department's 2008 allocation towards the development and dissemination of an impact document on diagnosis and management of Haemochromatosis in Irish General Practice.

I recently met with officials from the HSE to discuss the implementation of the recommendations of the report. Various issues in relation to the management of haemochromatosis were raised at the meeting and these issues are currently being investigated.

My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange for an update on the implementation of the recommendations of the report on haemachromotosis and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.