Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

714. To ask the Minister for Health in view of the fact that the drug eculizumab, also known as Soliris, is the most expensive drug in the country and that it will cost the taxpayer more than €20 million over the next five years to treat approximately 18 patients, and in view of the fact that a company (details supplied) continues to act in an unreasonable manner regarding cost reductions, and also in view of the fact that this drug is available in Newry, County Down, at a discount of 17% compared with the price at which it is available in Drogheda, County Louth, if the Health Service Executive will now take appropriate measures, including instituting legal proceedings against the company for abuse of a monopoly position, in order to secure a more sustainable price for this medicine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20530/15]

Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The HSE has statutory responsibility for decisions on pricing and reimbursement of medicinal products under the community drug schemes in accordance with the provisions of the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013; therefore, the matter has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to you. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, please contact my Private Office and they will follow up the matter with them.