15/10/2015

SF Concerned Over Epipen Medication Shortage

Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams has raised concerns at the current shortage of the adult preparations of the medication used in life-saving epipens.

Mr Adams raised his concerns following the announcement by Minister for Health, Leo Varadkar, of a change in the law to allow for members of the public to administer life-saving rescue medicines in emergency situations.

Mr Adams said: "The Minister's response does not explain why there is a shortage of injectors. This problem does not exist in other states where epipens are available. This is a matter I intend taking up again with the Minister and the HPRA."

He continued: "The new laws signed by the Minister will allow for the wider use of adrenaline epipens to treat people suffering severe allergic reactions and other conditions.

"Sinn Féin has been consistently raising this issue, including in local councils. I have met Caroline Sloan the mother of 14-year-old Emma Sloan, who died just before Christmas 2013 in O'Connell Street after suffering an allergic reaction.

"Caroline's campaign to ease the regulations around the availability of epipens attracted considerable public and media attention and the Minister's decision is in no small part a result of Caroline's diligence. I want to commend her for her work."

(MH/JP)

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