I previously raised with the Taoiseach the situation of two boys in my constituency, Sam and Glen, who suffer from spinal muscular atrophy. With their parents and 20 other children around the country, they are looking for access to a drug called Spinraza. The Taoiseach indicated that it had not been approved by the HSE. In subsequent replies, he indicated that the matter was under review and negotiation between the HSE and the drugs company, which has given these children some hope that they will get access to the drug in a short time. Were they in many other European countries, they would have access to it today. Will the Taoiseach update the House on where the negotiations stand and whether there is any prospect of the drug being made available before the end of the year?

At the outset, I acknowledge the Deputy's consistency on this issue. I have often said in this forum that consistency is my favourite attribute in a politician. I asked a question before I came to the Chamber today, as I expected the Deputy to raise the issue again, given that he has constituents about whom he is very concerned. I acknowledge the frustration he feels as a public representative who raises this matter continually only to get the same answer each time. As I outlined previously, though, there are two sides at the negotiating table - the HSE and the drugs companies, which are charging incredibly high prices. We must ensure value for money. The negotiations are continuing. I wish they were concluded, but we cannot do so at the cost of giving the company an open cheque book. The negotiations are at a relatively final stage, but I cannot predetermine their outcome or when they will close. As soon as there is a breakthrough, I will let the Deputy know.