As of 1 October 2018, Ireland is contributing 616 personnel to 9 different missions throughout the world. The main overseas missions in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed are the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Syria and EU Naval Mission EUNAVFORMED (Operation Sophia). An additional deployment of approximately 106 Defence Forces personnel to the UNIFIL mission for the 12 month period November 2018 to November 2019 has recently been approved. Other missions in which the Defence Forces are deployed are Mali (EUTM Mali), Bosnia and Herzegovina(EUFOR), Kosovo (KFOR), Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) and Western Sahara (MINURSO). Ireland also contributes observers and staff to various UN and OSCE posts. With regard to any future deployments overseas, Ireland receives requests from time to time, in relation to participation in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis.
I had previously indicated to the Deputy that drugs, including Lariam (mefloquine) are purchased by the Defence Forces under the four year framework agreement between the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) and the HSE. For completeness, this is the framework agreement on the Supply and Pricing of Medicines (2016-2020) negotiated between the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association, the Department of Health, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and the HSE.
The military authorities have now clarified that, as Lariam was withdrawn from the Irish Market by the manufacturers, it falls outside the Framework Agreement. The Defence Forces have advised that they currently source Lariam through wholesalers that are authorised to supply exempt products.
The Deputy is aware that there are three anti-malarial drugs, namely Lariam (Mefloquine), Malarone and Doxycycline which continue to be used by the Defence Forces. All of these anti-malaria drugs have contraindications and side effects. I have indicated on many occasions that the use of anti-malaria drugs is a medical matter that should be decided by qualified medical professionals. In the Defence Forces these are decisions for highly qualified Medical Officers, having regard to the specific circumstances of the mission and the individual member of the Defence Forces. Significant precautions are taken by the Defence Forces Medical Officers in assessing the medical suitability of members of the Defence Forces to take any of the anti-malarial medications.
I had previously indicated that a Working Group was re-convened to review developments arising in relation to malaria chemoprophylaxis and the use of Lariam, particularly in the context of the current potential litigation. The Working Group has produced its Second Report which has been provided to me. It has made a total of twelve recommendations many of which focus on areas including planning, training and education/information sharing as well as the establishment of a New Medical Advisory Group. This will formalise the provision of ongoing expert medical advice, including external medical advice, to the Defence Forces in relation to a range of medical matters.
Given that there is litigation pending it would be inappropriate for me to comment further. However, I wish to assure the Deputy that the health and welfare of the men and women of the Defence Forces is a key priority for me and the Defence Forces.
