Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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1379. To ask the Minister for Health the extent to which use of the Single European Market can be identified as a means of alleviating the impact of persons faced with the high cost of experimental drugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28192/17]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Each EU member state is responsible for the procurement of medicinal products. However, our membership of the single market offers an opportunity for international cooperation with other member countries to reduce the cost of new drugs.

In June 2016, the Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council adopted conclusions on strengthening the balance in the pharmaceutical systems in the EU and its member states. Those conclusions invited member states to explore opportunities for cooperation on pricing and reimbursement of medicines and to identify areas for cooperation which could contribute to affordability and better access to medicines. I have indicated my support for these measures and I welcome the opportunity for member states to cooperate by sharing information, so that we can achieve affordable and sustainable access to medicines.

I and my officials have been actively engaged with our European colleagues on the issue of drug pricing. In May I attended the third Round Table meeting for European Health Ministers and CEO's/Heads of Europe-based pharmaceutical companies in Malta, where I signed the Valetta Declaration.

The Declaration is in line with my objectives since coming into office to work with other countries to make medicines available to patients at affordable prices.

A technical committee to be established shortly, will explore the possible areas for cooperation including information sharing, horizon scanning and possible price negotiations and joint procurement.

I will continue to explore further opportunities to engage with Ministers from other EU countries on how to address the challenge of securing access to new medicines for citizens at an affordable price.