Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 February 2014
213. Deputy Colm Keaveney asked the Minister for Health in reference to his reply on 23 January 2014 on children and adults with narcolepsy, where he referred to his discussion with the Chief Medical Officer about a no-fault compensation scheme, if he will explain the stage these discussions are at; what the proposal contains; the way he proposes to compensate children and adults with narcolepsy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7069/14]
View answer214. Deputy Colm Keaveney asked the Minister for Health in reference to his reply on 23 January 2014 in respect of children and adults with narcolepsy, the basis on which the prognosis is better than previously indicated; the timeframe for this improved prognosis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7070/14]
View answer215. Deputy Colm Keaveney asked the Minister for Health in reference to his reply on 23 January 2014 in respect of children and adults with narcolepsy, if he will accept an invitation from Sufferers of Unique Narcolepsy Disorder to meet affected families and not just the committee members of that organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7071/14]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 213 to 215, inclusive, together.
My Department is currently examining the recommendations of the Vaccine Damage Steering Group. However, this issue is complex and needs to be considered in the wider context of how best to address the long term health and social needs of people who may have experienced adverse outcomes from other health services.
With regard to the prognosis for individuals with narcolepsy, experts agree that progress has been made in the treatment of narcolepsy. In the majority of cases functioning can be restored to approximately 80% of normal with appropriate medication and lifestyle modifications. Recent research is indicating that narcolepsy is an autoimmune disorder, and it is now possible to explore new therapies which may have more beneficial effects. Further information regarding progress in treatment can be found at http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3480574/.
I have met with affected families on two occasions in the past (September 2011 and July 2012). I have given a commitment that affected individuals will continue to receive individualised medical supports on an ex-gratia basis.
