Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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Question 455: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the introduction of a compensation scheme for those persons not covered in an earlier scheme in respect of compensation for survivors of thalidomide; if there is a medical assessment taking place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1651/09]

John Moloney (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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The Minister met with the Irish Thalidomide Association on 17th January 2008. One of the issues raised was the position regarding five individuals claiming exposure to thalidomide, who were not included in the 1975 Compensation Scheme for thalidomide victims. The Minister decided to refer the five individuals to an independent, recognised international expert, Dr. Peter Kohler of Stockholm in Sweden, who treats victims of thalidomide, for a clinical assessment of their condition.

Having considered all the evidence before him, Dr. Kohler determined that one of the five individuals is a victim of thalidomide exposure. While the issue of comparable compensation for that individual is under consideration, the Department will not be revisiting any further claims in relation to thalidomide. The Department has been in contact with all five individuals regarding the outcome of their assessment.