Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 November 2025
246. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Defence the total amount his Department has spent to date on legal costs, settlements, and compensation to former and current members of the Defence Forces in relation to cases concerning the use of a drug (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59786/25]
View answerThe health and wellbeing of the men and women who serve in Óglaigh na hÉireann is of the utmost importance to me as Minister for Defence. The Defence Forces Medical Corps is responsible for coordination and provision of medical, dental, and pharmaceutical support to the Defence Forces in the execution of its roles.
The drug referred to by the Deputy was prescribed as anti-malarial medication for Defence Force members being deployed to areas where malaria was a risk. Malaria can be a very serious disease and the medication prescribed was done so in the context of the provision of medical services to personnel in advance of deployment.
Litigation relating to the prescription of and alleged side effects from the consumption of the Malaria Chemoprophylaxis drug Lariam is managed (under statutory delegation) by the State Claims Agency (SCA) on behalf of the Minister for Defence.
I am informed by the SCA that the total transactional amount paid (including VAT where applicable) for Lariam-related claims is €9,988,570.
The SCA have advised that there has been engagement in respect of all remaining litigation cases to determine if an agreement can be reached to bring the proceedings to a conclusion that is acceptable to all parties.
I am unable to comment any further on the matters raised by the Deputy as it could inadvertently prejudice legal proceedings that are currently before the Courts.
I remain committed as Minister for Defence to ensuring that those who serve with such honour and distinction as members of Óglaigh na hÉireann can continue to do so with all the necessary medical provisions and supports in place for them.
