Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said he will make contact with the Irish Thalidomide Association "within two weeks" about the creation of a mediation process to resolve outstanding issues relating to the catastrophic impact of the drug, which was given to expectant mothers and left their children with very serious disabilities.
He told the Dáil that he would like to get the problems resolved "as quickly as we can".
He was replying to the Labour leader Ivana Bacik, who said next month marks the 61st anniversary that thalidomide was withdrawn from the international market, but added it remained in circulation in Ireland "for far too long" and, for that, the State "bears responsibility".
Deputy Bacik praised last night's RTÉ Scannal programme on the topic, and said that the few surviving mothers who received thalidomide were still waiting on a formal apology from the Government.
She said while there was an offer of compensation in 2009, she contended that the subsequent financial packages "have not come near" to overcoming the difficulties experienced by survivors.
The Taoiseach said both a political and legal process was in play because the Government wanted to make "absolutely sure" that any contributions given by the State was not being "subtracted" by the thalidomide foundation assisting victims. He added this was "important and can't be dismissed".
Mr Martin said he had held discussions with the Minister for Health and Attorney General, as well as the Irish Thalidomide Association about creating a "meaningful process" to deal with areas such as a comprehensive health package and ongoing supports.
Deputy Bacik called on him to speedily "resolve the stalemate".
Labour leader Ivana Bacik calls for a formal State apology, compensation and healthcare packages for thalidomide survivors. The Taoiseach said he will make contact with the Irish Thalidomide Association about the creation of a mediation process to resolve outstanding issues. pic.twitter.com/O7hrZ88jGr
— RTÉ News (@rtenews) October 5, 2022
