I have a letter in my hand from Dr. Derville O'Shea, consultant haematologist, in respect of a constituent of mine, Aishling Thornhill, who, unfortunately, has relapsed refractory B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. It is a complicated condition. My understanding is that treatment would be available to her if she was under 25 but because she is over 25 it is not being made available. I understand some progress was made on it this morning. Could the issue be clarified? Where a consultant prescribes that the treatment would be of benefit to a patient over 25, why is a barrier put in place for them? Could the issue be examined in the overall context?

I thank Deputy Burke very much. I know he has been in direct contact with the Minister, Deputy Carroll MacNeill, on this issue. She has looked into the matter. My understanding is that the treatment has now been confirmed, which I am very pleased is the case, and that she will confirm that directly to the Deputy. I wish his constituent, Aishling, the very best in her treatment. I know that the Deputy, everyone in Cork, and those of us here are thinking of her. The broader policy issue is something the Minister and the HSE will reflect on, based on the best clinical advice. I am pleased that the treatment has now been confirmed in this case.