asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the heavy financial burden for drugs, equipment, special diet, etc., borne by the parents of children suffering from cystic fibrosis; and if he will introduce legislation to enable treatment of such children to be free as under the tuberculosis service.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Treatment of Cystic Fibrosis
165.
Mr. O'Malley
I am aware that the cost of caring for a child afflicted with this disease is considerable, but I am advised that health authorities, under the present legislation, can and do make arrangements to alleviate financial hardship which may fall on parents in any income group in arranging for proper care for these children Therefore, I do not propose to introduce amending legislation to make treatment for this disease available free to all.
Would the Minister state what he would think would be the weekly cost of treatment for this condition?
Mr. O'Malley
I suppose it would vary from case to case but it can be very expensive. That is my information.