Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 10 March 2022
401. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Health if an update will be provided on the actions and measures being provided by his Department to support survivors of thalidomide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13809/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will appreciate that there are a number of cases concerning thalidomide before the High Court at present and it is not possible to comment on matters that are sub judice.
In addition to an ex-gratia lump sum and an ex-gratia monthly allowance for life, the supports provided by the Irish State to each Irish survivor include a medical card on an administrative basis regardless of means. This includes access to a full range of primary care, hospital and personal social services, provision of appliances, artificial limbs, equipment and housing adaptations.
There is a designated senior manager in the Health Service Executive who liaises with Irish thalidomide survivors and assists them to access supports towards their ongoing health and personal social service needs.
Work is underway in the Department to provide these health and personal social supports on an ex-gratia basis on a statutory footing, as committed to by the Government.
I recently met with thalidomide survivors. At that meeting I listened to their healthcare needs, which are unique to each person.
I can assure thalidomide survivors of the Government’s ongoing commitment to provide them with the necessary health supports to meet their related needs.
