Louise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal, Sinn Fein)
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877. To ask the Minister for Health the detail of the usage of biosimilars as against biologics in publicly funded hospitals; his plans to address this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37138/17]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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My Department is currently developing a National Biosimilar Medicines Policy to promote the rational use of biosimilar medicines and to create a sustainable environment for biological medicines in Ireland. The policy will aim to increase biosimilar use in Ireland, by creating a robust framework in which biologicals and biosimilars can be safely, cost-effectively and confidently used in the health service.

My Department has initiated this consultation process to ensure that a wide range of views are considered in developing this policy framework. The consultation paper is available online at and the closing date for submissions is the 22 September 2017.

In relation to the specific query raised by the Deputy, I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly.