Cystic fibrosis sufferers in the island are to benefit from three medicines to be made available through the health service within weeks.

A decision to fund the treatments will give cystic fibrosis patients full, free access to Orkambi, Symkevi and Kalydeco, which are licensed for a range of indications.

The decision was made by Health and Social Care Minister David Ashford who has confirmed that clinicians will be able to prescribe once the ordering process has been established.

Mr Ashford said: ’l am delighted we are able to make these medicines available for the benefit of sufferers of this debilitating condition.

’We believe the treatments will be suitable for up to 20 patients with cystic fibrosis and I am hopeful they will improve their quality of life.

’I have informed representatives of CF charities in the island of the decision and will keep them updated.

’I anticipate the treatments will be available in the island by mid-January.’