SDLP Health Spokesperson Mark H Durkan MLA has called for parties to work intensively to restore the power sharing institutions to deliver for Cystic Fibrosis sufferers.
Mr Durkan was speaking after he and other SDLP MLAs marched with CF Families at Stormont.
He said: ”
“It was inspirational to speak with Cystic Fibrosis sufferers and their families as we marched to Stormont demanding access to the drug Orkambi which will save lives and enhance quality of life for so many people.
“This is an issue I have raised with successive Health Ministers.
“I’ve lobbied and asked Assembly Questions, which unfortunately remained unanswered.
“It’s time to move beyond talking and start acting to deliver for CF families.
“The Irish Government has a;ready seen the value in this drug and moved to grant access.
“This is a positive campaign that they can and should win. But they know better than most that the first step toward delivering Orkambi is the restoration of the power sharing institutions.
“We need local Ministers taking decisions which defend the health interests of people here. All parties must be focussed in the days ahead,” he added.