|
Today (Thursday) in the Dáil, Fine Gael Wicklow Deputy Andrew Doyle called on the Minister for Health to introduce legislation to allow for funding of Exon Skipping Trials in England for people with Muscular Dystrophy.
In response to a query on the subject, the former Minister of State at the Department of Health, Jimmy Devins, said it was not possible under existing legislation, although there was all-party agreement for urgent support for enabling legislation.
"Because of the debilitating way Muscular Dystrophy affects the children with this disease, it is vital that any action to support them is taken as soon as possible. As the Director of Muscular Dystrophy Ireland said, 'time is not on our side'. Participation by the Government in these trials in the UK would cost €1.5 million and could make a significant difference to the lives of people affected."
After Tánaiste Mary Coughlan stated today that she was not aware of any plans to introduce enabling legislation, Deputy Doyle has called on her and the Department to delay no longer but take immediate action to allow these patients to benefit from a research programme that could change their lives for the better.
Original Press Release here: http://www.finegael.ie/news/index.cfm/type/details/nkey/34553/pkey/653
|
Subscribe To Posts