Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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647. To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide the details of any engagement he has had or plans to have with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, regarding those children who were adversely affected by the administration of the flu vaccine drug Pandemrix and who are suffering as a consequence from the chronic sleep disorder known as narcolepsy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21767/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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I engage with many Departments on a wide range of health issues. However, my priority in this area, is to ensure that those affected by narcolepsy, with symptom onset post pandemic vaccination are provided with a range of services and supports to meet their health needs. The Health Service Executive has responsibility for health service delivery and at my request the HSE developed a range of appropriate services and supports to address the needs of this group. Together, the HSE and the Department of Education and Skills provide a very comprehensive range of services and supports to those affected. The HSE through its advocacy unit and regional co-ordinators assist individuals affected by narcolepsy following pandemic vaccination and family members of those so affected, in accessing appropriate services and supports.