Senate debates

Wednesday, 8 February 2012

Committees

Community Affairs References Committee; Reference

4:17 pm

Photo of Nick XenophonNick Xenophon (SA, Independent) Share this | | Hansard source

I move:

(1)   That the following matter be referred to the Community Affairs References Committee for inquiry and report by 31 May 2012:

     The role of the Government and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regarding the approval and monitoring of medical devices listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods, including:

  (a)   the TGA's approval, monitoring, withdrawal and follow-up of the Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) breast implants;

  (b)   the procedures the TGA has in place to continuously monitor relevant information in relation to device manufacturers and sponsors, including the legal or approval issues both in Australia and overseas;

  (c)   information provided to the Government in relation to the PIP breast implants;

  (d)   the impact of PIP breast implant failures on Australian patients;

  (e)   the procedures the TGA has in place to assess the risk to Australian patients if devices available in Australia are the subject of warnings or withdrawals overseas;

  (f)   the procedures the TGA has in place to communicate device information (including withdrawal information) to the general public, with a focus on affected patients; and

  (g)   the ability of the TGA to undertake or commission research in relation to specific areas of concern regarding devices, such as metal-on-metal implants.

(2)   That, in conducting its inquiry, the committee should consider:

  (a)   the report and findings of the 2011 Community Affairs References Committee inquiry into medical devices; and

  (b)   any action the Government and TGA has taken or intends to take in relation to the 2011 report and recommendations.

Question agreed to.