Epilepsy Ireland

Lobbying Organisation Epilepsy Ireland

Date published 17 May, 2017

Relevant Matter Public policy or programme

Public Policy Area Health

Period 1 Jan, 2017 to 30 Apr, 2017

Specific Details Highlighting issues surrounding the use of epilepsy drug Valproate (Epilim) in pregnancy

Intended results Informing the Senator of the issues relating to the use of valproate in pregnancy and the work of FACS Forum of which Epilepsy Ireland is a member Secure support of Senator in raising issues around (1) risk minimisation and improving awareness as per European Medicines Agency decision and (2) the need for greater supports for families affected

Name of person primarily responsible for lobbying on this activity Mr. Peter Murphy, CEO

Did any Designated Public Official(DPO) or former Designated Public Official(DPO) carry out lobbying activities on your behalf in relation to this return? You must include yourself, and answer Yes, if you are a current DPO or a DPO at any time in the past. (What is a Designated Public Official?) No

Did you manage or direct a grassroots campaign? No

Was this lobbying done on behalf of a client? No

Lobbying activity

The following activities occurred for this specific Subject Matter Area.

Email (2-5)

Emails requesting and arranging/ re-arranging meeting

Meeting (1)

Meeting held with representatives of the FACS Forum and parents of children affected by use of valproate in pregnancy. Briefing document presented and discussed with Senator.

Designated public officials lobbied

The following DPOs were lobbied during this return period on this specific Subject Matter Area. These DPOs were involved in at least one of the Lobbying Activities listed above, but not necessarily all of them. As returns are specific to a Subject Matter Area the above Lobbying Activities may be associated with multiple returns.

John Dolan Senator (Seanad)