Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent)
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56. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if the subject of informed consent has been considered by the working group on Lariam, specifically whether Defence Forces members were in a position to give their informed consent to the taking of the drug; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7341/17]

Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy is aware the Malaria Chemoprophylaxis Working Group was established in January 2011 and reported in April 2013. The Group was re-convened in August 2015.

The purpose of the Group is to review, inter alia, issues arising in relation to the use of Lariam, particularly in the context of the current and potential litigation. It is to review the Defence Forces approach in relation to the use of malaria chemoprophylaxis. It is also to ensure that the procedures in relation to this continue to be appropriate and in accordance with best medical practice.

As with the Group’s original report, the current report is being produced in the context of current and potential litigation and is, therefore, legally privileged. The Group is considering a range of issues relating to malaria chemoprophylaxis and Lariam and has obtained advice from leading medical experts.