Lariam and ministerial travel
Deputy O’Flynn asked when the State first knew of Lariam’s side effects, whether it was issued to all ranks, and whether Ministers travelling abroad were given different medication. The Minister said the first question was more suitable for a parliamentary question, would seek a response, and had no information on what medication Ministers used.
Will the Minister please inform the House when the Government first received reports indicating that the anti-malaria drug Lariam, mefloquine, was associated with adverse side effects? When did the Department of Defence become aware of that? Can the Minister also confirm whether Lariam was issued to all personnel of all ranks, and not just the privates or the NCOs?
I also note that the Taoiseach has travelled 20 times in the last ten months-----
Comment on this
On any of the occasions Government Ministers have left the country, have they been in receipt of Lariam, or was a different drug prescribed for them?
Comment on this
The first question in relation to Lariam is probably more appropriate for a parliamentary question but I will raise the matter and seek a response for the Deputy. I do not have the details or the answer to hand on that. Each Minister travels and a Head of Government has to attend international events-----
Comment on this
I have no problem with that. I am only asking if they had Lariam.
Comment on this
In relation to what medication different Ministers use, I have no idea. That is a matter for those particular Ministers as well.