2953. Deputy Martin Daly asked the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality when she last met the Irish thalidomide association; and if she will give a report of that meeting. [57944/26]

My Department holds the responsibility for the provision of supports and services to survivors of Thalidomide.

Acknowledged Irish survivors of thalidomide living in the state are eligible for health and personal social services from the State regardless of means.

The Taoiseach and Tánaiste have met the Irish Thalidomide Association three times this year, twice accompanied by the Attorney General where a range of issues were discussed and progressed. The most recent meeting was on the 6th of July.

I have met with a number of Thalidomide survivors since I came into office and officials in my Department liaise through the National Thalidomide Advocacy Office and through the Department of the Taoiseach and on the wider matters affecting Thalidomide survivors.

The Thalidomide Facilitation Process led by former Judge of the Appeals Court, Mr. Paul Gilligan is on-going as he continues to meet with thalidomide survivors.