Vol. 483 No. 2
10 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the scientific evidence regarding the possibility of transmission of a new variant of CJD through blood transfusion; and the measures, if any, he has taken to ensure the treatment of blood donations to eliminate this risk. [19845/97]
CJD is an exceptionally rare disorder of the brain which causes rapidly progressive dementia and eventually death. Research has shown that CJD is caused by a unique prion protein which exists in a non-infectious form in all humans.
We dealt with this matter under priority questions.
Yes, but I see Deputy Upton in the House and he may wish to ask supplementary questions on the matter.
To what extent has the Department invested in research in this area? Have Department officials been in contact with international agencies on the matter? Is expertise and competence at a state of the art level?
I refer the Deputy to the very detailed reply I gave during priority questions. No specific research is carried out by the BTSB, but we are aware of research carried out in the UK. When the BTSB transfers to St. James's Hospital, I hope it will have the capacity to do that research. I am satisfied its management is aware of these developments and keeping up with international practices in this area.
Has the Minister arranged for the transfer of personnel from the BTSB and other experts to international agencies to learn about new developments and technology? How much money, if any, is being spent in that area?
I have not done that. The management of the BTSB is aware of the research being carried out by bodies in the UK. Some technical committees are assisting it and there is also a link with the department of microbiology in UCC. An earlier detailed reply to a priority question outlined that everything that can be done here is being done and that developments are being monitored carefully.
