Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 October 2015
256. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that a medication manufacturer (details supplied) is currently providing EpiPens free of charge to schools in the United States of America; and if a similar arrangement might be sought for Irish schools. [36883/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand that the initiative the Deputy refers to involving the supply by a medication manufacturer of adrenaline auto-injectors to schools in the United States of America is part of a marketing strategy by that company.
In relation to the Statutory Instrument which I signed on 15 October 2015, making a number of rescue medicines available for use in emergency situations by lay persons, the arrangements that it permits are voluntary. No schools or other organisations are obliged to participate unless they wish to do so. Furthermore the Statutory Instrument makes it a condition of administration of the medications concerned by lay persons that such persons must have undergone appropriate training in this regard.
I wish to stress the importance of people continuing to carry the medicines that they need to manage their own health needs, as this initiative in no way diminishes any individual's responsibility in this regard.
