Unfortunately and sadly, many people suffer from the condition, Lupus. There is a life-changing drug available to them but, unfortunately, it is not available through current schemes. What progress has been made by the Department of Health in making this great drug available which would make the lives of the people affected more tolerable and bearable?

Already this year, 23 new drugs have been approved. It is an independent process and is not done by ministerial order. Negotiations have taken place with the companies involved. It is not as straightforward as looking at the clinical side of it and if it is effective. There is also a cost issue. We want to be fair to the entire population to ensure as many people as possible can avail of these drugs. The process takes a little bit longer than any of us would like but that is necessary to ensure we get value for money, which I am sure the Deputy would like to see, to allow us to purchase as many different types of these drugs as possible. However, we cannot give a blank cheque to the drug companies. The process is continuing under the remit of the Health Products Regulatory Authority, HPRA.