Statement from Cystic Fibrosis Ireland - Orkambi (and Kalydeco)

Cystic Fibrosis Ireland (CFI) is concerned that, according to a recent statement by Vertex Pharmaceuticals, there has been no contact between the Health Service Executive and Vertex in recent weeks, despite repeated public assurances by the Minister for Health, Simon Harris TD, and An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny TD, that a deal on important new drug therapies is imminent.

On behalf of our patients, CFI calls on Minister Harris and the Government to do what they have promised to do – to make an agreement for the provision of Orkambi and Kalydeco for the 600 patients that would benefit from these two vital drug therapies.

The negotiations for these ground-breaking drugs are now more than nine months old. There have been repeated assurances given in recent weeks which CFI has welcomed. Cystic Fibrosis patients would be very grateful for the promised announcement on a final agreement.