Medicines Board to probe stem cell ferry plan

THE IRISH Medicines Board has confirmed it will investigate claims stem cell treatment was being offered on ferries between Cork and Wales in an attempt to avoid EU law which regulates stem cell usage.

The IMB had already begun a probe into the provision of the treatment to multiple sclerosis sufferers from a Carrigaline clinic — but will now expand its inquiry.

Such stem cell treatment is not licensed here as experts say insufficient research has been completed on its effectiveness for MS sufferers.