Mayo Senator Rose Conway-Walsh, who has relentlessly campaigned for the provision of Translarna in this state, has welcomed the government's decision to approve the drug for treatment of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
Senator Conway-Walsh said: "I am delighted for the families and the young boys who desperately need this treatment to enable them to stay mobile. Since July 2017 when I first met Lewis Harte-Walsh and his family from Castlebar, I have worked to ensure Translarna is made available here as it is in 22 other countries and the North of Ireland.
"Lewis was one of the young boys who desperately needs Translarna. His Mum Ann-Marie joined Muscular Dystrophy Ireland and Michelle Young from Scotland to present the case for Translarna to TDs and Senators.
"I want to acknowledge that the right decision has been made and to thank those involved. I particularly, want to thank Ann-Marie, Michelle and the other families for never giving up.
"The fight continues for the approval of Spinraza for the treatment of Spinal Muscular Atrophy."
