Given that today is World Diabetes Day, when can we expect the roll-out of FreeStyle Libre to all diabetes sufferers? At present, it is provided up to the age limit of 21 years and there has been a major campaign by all the people who suffer from diabetes to roll it out to all sufferers. It is advanced technology that can greatly assist the people who suffer from this condition. Can the Taoiseach give a commitment as to when this will happen?

Page 53 of the programme for Government states that efforts will be made to provide safe and timely care. As my colleague said, today is World Diabetes Day. The HSE made a decision recently to provide FreeStyle Libre for children and adults up to the age of 21 years under the long-term illness scheme. That was warmly welcomed. Unfortunately, for those over the age of 21 years who have type 1 diabetes, which is approximately 20,000 adults in Ireland, access to FreeStyle Libre costs €120 per month per person. My question is similar to my colleague's. Are efforts being made to roll-out the FreeStyle Libre device to adults over 21 years? It would significantly improve their quality of life.

I do not know. The budget provides for a reduction in prescription charges for all patients with medical cards and also for a reduction in the drugs payment scheme, DPS, for those who do not. However, I believe the Deputies are asking whether this device can be included under the long-term illness scheme for people over 21 years and I do not know the answer to that, but I will ask the Minister for Health to give the Deputies a reply.