Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats)
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664. To ask the Minister for Health for an update on when the long-Term Illness scheme will be reviewed in relation to the age restriction of 16 years of age on the mental illness category of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21774/23]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The Long-term Illness (LTI) scheme was established under Section 59(3) of the Health Act 1970 (as amended). Regulations were made in 1971, 1973 and 1975, prescribing 16 illnesses covered by the scheme.

These are: acute leukaemia; mental handicap; cerebral palsy; mental illness (in a person under 16); cystic fibrosis; multiple sclerosis; diabetes insipidus; muscular dystrophies; diabetes mellitus; parkinsonism; epilepsy; phenylketonuria; haemophilia; spina bifida; hydrocephalus; and conditions arising from the use of Thalidomide.

Under the LTI Scheme, patients receive drugs, medicines, and medical and surgical appliances directly related to the treatment of their illness, free of charge.

Statutory Instrument No. 277 of 1971, put a limitation on Section 59(3) of the Health Act 1970, in respect of the provision of medicines to those suffering from mental illness:

"Arrangements for the supply of drugs and medicines to persons suffering from mental illness in pursuance of section 59 (3) of the Act shall be made only in respect of persons under the age of 16 years."

My Department is currently examining all of the issues around the scope of the Scheme, including this issue.