Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 12 July 2018
61. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the estimated cost of conducting a screening programme for side effects of Lariam for Defence Force veterans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32057/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department has not undertaken any estimates with regard to such a project and the information is not available.
However, I wish to assure the Deputy that the health and welfare of the men and women of the Defence Forces is a key priority for me and for the Military Authorities. Significant precautions are taken by the Defence Forces Medical Officers in accessing the medical suitability of the members of the Defence Forces to take any of the anti-malarial medications. It is the policy of the Defence Forces that personnel are individually screened for fitness for service overseas and medical suitability.
The Deputy is aware that there is litigation pending, taken by current and former members of the Defence Forces who allege personal injuries as a consequence of their consumption of Lariam. It would therefore be inappropriate for me to comment further.
