Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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A Memo for Government to establish a Non-Statutory Inquiry into historical use of Sodium Valproate was brought to cabinet in July 2023, and Government approval to proceed was secured. The inquiry is being designed to provide a safe and supportive environment in which affected patients and their families can provide personal statements about their lives and experiences. The inquiry will appoint an independent Chair of the inquiry. The Chair will need to be a person of relevant experience, who will conduct a fair and independent process. There is a substantial time commitment involved, and it is essential that the right person is secured for this role.

An Expressions of Interest document for appointment, on a contract for service basis, for the position of Chair for a non-statutory inquiry into the historical licensing and use of sodium valproate in women of child-bearing potential in the State was published on 26th March 2024 by the Department of Health. Interested applicants were required to submit their applications by 24th April. Following receipt of applications, a selection process is underway with an inquiry Chairperson expected to be appointed as an outcome of that process. The patient groups are being kept informed of progress.

I will provide an update on the matter to the Houses of the Oireachtas when this process has been concluded.