Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 17: To ask the Minister for Health the steps he will take with the manufacturer of the cancer drug (details supplied) to reduce its price to the Health Service Executive in order that the 200 people per year here who have advanced malignant melanomas, can when applicable, be prescribed this drug by oncologists [16285/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The HSE's National Cancer Control Programme has overall responsibility for providing access to appropriate treatments that meet clinical needs, including emerging drug treatments. e drug to which the Deputy refers (Ipilimumab) is a treatment for advanced melanoma in adults. I am advised by the Director of the Cancer Control Programme that this drug is currently going through a health technology assessment process. e Programme has been involved in ongoing discussion with the company on its cost and I am assured that a decision on its use nationally is expected shortly.