1237. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Health when screening for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic condition affecting approximately six babies born in Ireland each year, will be included in the national newborn bloodspot screening programme; if SMA screening will be implemented before the end of March 2026, as cited by a leading paediatric clinician in recent media coverage; the preparations currently underway to ensure this timeline is met, given that more than two years have elapsed since the decision was taken to include SMA in the heelprick test (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12849/26]

Summary

1237. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Health when screening for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic condition affecting approximately six babies born in Ireland each year, will be included in the national newborn bloodspot screening programme; if SMA screening will be implemented before the end of March 2026, as cited by a leading paediatric clinician in recent media coverage; the preparations currently underway to ensure this timeline is met, given that more than two years have elapsed since the decision was taken to include SMA in the heelprick test (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12849/26]

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Timeline

1. 17 February 2026

   Health Screening Programmes

   1237. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Health when screening for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a rare genetic condition affecting approximately six babies born in Ireland each year, will be included in the national newborn bloodspot screening programme; if SMA screening will be implemented before the end of March 2026, as cited by a leading paediatric clinician in recent media coverage; the preparations currently underway to ensure this timeline is met, given that more than two years have elapsed since the decision was taken to include SMA in the heelprick test (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12849/26]

   Source: written

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• Health Screening Programmes

  xml · EN · 17 February 2026

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