Valproate inquiry
Deputy Conway-Walsh presses for the promised inquiry into valproate, saying families affected by the drug still lack answers and supports. The Minister says he will speak directly with the Health Minister and seek an update.
I raise the issue of valproate. Hundreds of families across this State have been impacted. Children have been born with disabilities as a result of valproate. It is not confined to this State but it is also in Britain and France. The Minister promised an inquiry in December 2020. We are still awaiting its terms of reference. The financial and other supports promised to families have not been delivered. When will we commence the inquiry into the scandal of valproate?
Comment on this
I will speak directly with the Minister for Health to get him to revert to the Deputy on this important issue. The Minister may have referred to it in here. I am not certain. I will get the Deputy an update and ask the Minister to engage directly with her.