# Taoiseach Urged to Issue Formal State Apology to Thalidomide Survivors Lawmakers push for a November deadline to address decades of state inaction regarding victims. - **Source:** [The Irish Times – Politics](https://www.irishtimes.com/politics) - **Published:** 2026-11-11 - **Topic:** [politics](https://brifing.si/c/politics) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/35142748-3724-4fd4-85c6-fe706873e0e8 ## Call for Formal Apology Fine Gael TD Barry Ward has urged Taoiseach Micheál Martin to issue a formal State apology to thalidomide survivors by November 27th. This date marks the 65th anniversary of the drug's international withdrawal. The request highlights a long-standing demand for accountability regarding the government's failure to protect citizens from the drug's effects. ## Historical Drug Impact Thalidomide was originally marketed in the 1950s to treat morning sickness during pregnancy. Although withdrawn internationally in 1961 due to severe birth defects, it remained available in Ireland until 1964. Survivors suffer from lifelong disabilities, including missing limbs, hearing and vision impairments, and internal organ injuries caused by the medication's toxic properties. ## Unacknowledged Survivor Challenges There are approximately 40 survivors in Ireland, including 12 individuals currently unacknowledged by the State. These victims were born to mothers who consumed the drug after its official withdrawal from the Irish market. Their exclusion from state recognition remains a primary point of contention for advocates seeking full justice and medical support. ## Government Response Status Taoiseach Micheál Martin confirmed the government is committed to a formal apology and resolving the ongoing process. While he expressed personal frustration regarding the delays, he did not provide a specific date for the apology. The Taoiseach noted that he and other senior officials have held four meetings with survivors this year. ## Medical Support Initiatives In July 2024, the government introduced an enhanced package of health and social care supports co-designed with survivor groups. This initiative aims to fulfill promises made in the 1970s to provide lifelong aid for affected individuals. An expanded national thalidomide advocacy office has also been established to manage these specific medical requirements. ## Legislative Hurdles Remain Despite the new support pathways, the Thalidomide Health Bill, first pledged in 2017, has yet to be published. The Irish Thalidomide Association warns that without statutory backing, the current health scheme lacks the necessary legal permanence. Finola Cassidy emphasized that making the scheme statutory is essential to finalize any meaningful deal for survivors. ## Draft Pathway Developments The government recently tabled a draft pathway specifically for unacknowledged survivors following consultations with legal and medical representatives. This development is intended to bridge the gap for those previously excluded from state support. Officials are currently working to integrate these measures into a formal framework that addresses the survivors' long-term needs. ## Path to Final Resolution The push for a November deadline underscores the urgency felt by survivors who have waited decades for recognition. While the government has increased funding and support, the absence of a statutory basis and a formal apology remains a significant barrier. The upcoming anniversary serves as a critical focal point for final resolution. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2026/11/11/taoiseach-urged-to-make-formal-state-apology-to-thalidomide-victims-on-november-anniversary/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._