Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Minister for Health the date on which he intends to submit the paper proposing a package of supports for those children and adolescents suffering with narcolepsy and additional medical complications following vaccination with Pandemrix which was to be submitted prior to the Summer recess of Dáil Éireann and again in September and October; if the paper has been prepared; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50321/12]

Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Health when the paper will be presented to the Oireachtas regarding patients with narcolepsy after vaccinations with Pandemrix; the reason for the delay in the presentation of the paper since July 2012; when he will re-establish communication with SOUND; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50325/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 257 and 258 together.

My Department is working closely with the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the Department of Education and Skills to address the needs of those affected by narcolepsy following pandemic vaccination.

The HSE provides a range of services and supports to those affected including access to rapid diagnosis, clear treatment pathways, temporary medical cards and reimbursement of expenses incurred. Multi-disciplinary assessments which allow for the appropriate individualised health and educational supports to be put in place have commenced. The National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) is also engaging with the HSE and with the individual schools and parents of children concerned to identify and provide educational supports for the children and adolescents affected.

My Department is considering all other possible supports which may need to be put in place for those affected. Any such supports require my approval and the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.

I would like to assure the Deputy that this matter continues to be a priority for my Department.