Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 May 2014
432. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health the length of time for which he will monitor the progress of the early access to medicines scheme that was recently introduced in the UK before examining the possibility of introducing a similar scheme here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20293/14]
Amharc ar fhreagra434. Deputy Billy Kelleher asked the Minister for Health in advance of any decision regarding the possible introduction of an early access of medicines scheme here, if he will consider bringing the pharmaceutical industry together to have preliminary talks in relation to their possible participation; and if so how soon would he envisage these talks taking place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20295/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 432 and 434 together.
On 14 March 2014, the UK Government announced the introduction of an Early Access to Medicines Scheme (EAMS) which aims to give patients with life threatening or seriously debilitating conditions access to medicines that have not yet obtained a marketing authorisation from the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). I understand that, under the EAMS, medicines will be provided to patients at no charge by the relevant pharmaceutical company until they are licensed by the MHRA. I also understand that the UK Government does not intend to establish a dedicated fund to support access to medicines under the Scheme. There is currently no equivalent scheme in place in Ireland. I will continue to closely monitor the implementation of the EAMS in the UK. At this stage, it is premature to consider the possibility of introducing a similar scheme in Ireland.
