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Dáil
‹ An tOrd Gnó - Order of Business

Thalidomide survivors

Summary

Ivana Bacik welcomed Finola Cassidy and pressed for justice for thalidomide survivors after delays. The Taoiseach said progress was being made and that an update would go to Government shortly.

I welcome Finola Cassidy to the Public Gallery. She is here on behalf of the Irish Thalidomide Association.

Once again, I ask the Taoiseach what he proposes to do to ensure thalidomide survivors in Ireland will have justice. It is now more than 63 years since the drug thalidomide was removed from the market. Also, it is more than 63 days – in fact, it is 70 – since the Taoiseach told Finola Cassidy he had a file on his desk on finally bringing this saga to an end for campaigners and that he would engage with them, yet they have heard nothing. Therefore, will the Taoiseach now commit to the House and survivors that he intends to move to deliver a State apology, statutory healthcare and a fair deal for the small number of remaining survivors who really need to see justice at this point and who are deeply frustrated?

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Simon Harris The Taoiseach Fine Gael

I do intend to make progress on this very shortly. I welcome Finola Cassidy, who has, from her perspective, become an all-too-frequent visitor to this House. It is always good to see her. I thank her for the way she engages. We are committed to the continued support of the health and personal social service needs of Irish thalidomide survivors. I have been engaging with Government colleagues on this matter. Progress has been made on certain aspects and an update will be brought to the Government very shortly.

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