Alex White (Dublin South, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Generic products are being dispensed perfectly legally in the system, not improperly. If a medicine is prescribed generically, pharmacists can fill the prescription with the appropriate product. Pharmacists can also supply a parallel-imported product. As matters stand, this is perfectly legal and I am not suggesting it should be otherwise.

I have stated we are dealing with a human situation where people rely on medication to treat epilepsy. Concerns have been raised with us by Epilepsy Ireland and some medical doctors. My officials and I have carefully considered what has been said. I am well aware of the human dimension of this issue and personally aware of cases.