Cystic Fibrosis campaigners say they are hopeful a deal can be done with the makers of a life-changing drug.

Last night Vertex said it would go back to talks with the HSE on the price of Orkambi.

CF sufferers who have undergone successful trials of the medication say it has significantly improved the quality of their lives – however up until now Vertex has asked for almost €160,000 per patient per year for the treatment.

CEO of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland is Phillip Watt: “I think the pressure is now on the pharmaceutical company Vertex to lower their price.

“Their list price was €160,000, I know that came down in negotiations, but I know they can reduce that money by more.

“So we really call on Vertex to respond positively.”