761. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the number currently availing of a pilot scheme in which participants receive buprenorphine as opposed to methadone; the comparative cost of bought treatments; the comparative risk profile of both medications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30578/15]

Minister of State at the Department of Health (Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin): I am advised by the Health Service Executive that at the end of July 2015 there were 77 people in receipt of buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone) for opioid dependence. Suboxone is being provided to this cohort under an initial feasibility study to evaluate the use of Suboxone in Ireland. I have asked the HSE to reply to the Deputy directly in relation to the comparative costs and risk profiles of both methadone and Suboxone.

If the Deputy has not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days he should contact my Private Office and they will follow up the matter with them.