New genetic testing service will help diagnose rare diseases

Carol and Danny Molloy at home near Drangan, Co Tipperary: We don’t know what the outlook is for him, we haven’t got a clue. We don’t know what to expect in the future because we don’t have a diagnosis.' Picture: Denis Minihane

Ireland’s first strategy for genetic and genomic medicine was launched on Tuesday, with plans for a patient-centred national service to help people with rare diseases.

These plans were welcomed by one Tipperary mother who is paying privately for genetic testing, having been told there is a 30-month waiting list for the public service.