Dr. Leisha Daly:

Deputy McLellan referenced the fact people have been able to get medicines in Spain at one tenth of the price here. The research we have done indicates that this does not refer, generally, to patent-protected medicines but to generics. We have looked at that in some detail and, as I mentioned in my opening statement, our prices are at the average and Spain is included in that calculation. It has been shown that it is generics that are at a much lower price in other countries and not patent-protected medicines.

I take this opportunity to acknowledge Senator Crown's contribution to the All Ireland Cooperative Oncology Research Group, ICORG, and its fantastic work for patients with cancer. The research coming out of that initiative has contributed greatly to the development of our medicines. The Senator made the comment that perhaps our industry does not support the use of generic medicines, but that is not the case. Our business is about providing innovative medicines, bringing new products onto the Irish market, getting a fair price for them and working within the processes we have. We certainly acknowledge that when the patent expires on a product, it is fair that generics be used in whatever quantities are required. It is not IPHA's position to object to the use of generic medicines. That is absolutely not the case.