Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

First of all, the problem in Northern Ireland is not as feared. Certainly, there is a fear that certain drugs may not be able to get into Northern Ireland because they are certified in Great Britain and that certification would not be recognised by the EU, and therefore that product coming into the EU Single Market for goods would be problematic because it is not certified by the EU. Vice-President Šefovi has committed to a proposal that would resolve that issue. In fact, it very much mirrors a UK paper that was presented to the Commission in March, and that is effectively the basis for the solution the EU wants to provide. It will effectively change EU law to recognise UK certification for Northern Ireland, therefore guaranteeing a seamless supply of medicines into Northern Ireland. There has been much talk about that.

My understanding is that as of yet there has not been a significant shortage of medicines in Northern Ireland, but that was a fear that could develop. This was a big fear about a year out from when Brexit was likely to take effect. There was quite a lot of discussion with the pharmaceutical industry on this issue. It was not just about human medicines, but it was about veterinary and animal medicines as well. To date, there has not been a shortage. I have yet to see empty shelves in any Boots stores. There is one across from my office in Carrigaline, in my constituency. This has not been an issue.

The solution the EU is putting together is a solution for Northern Ireland, not for the EU as a whole. What we are seeing is the industry responding by altering its supply chains. There may be some changes in some brands and the use of generic drugs in terms of certain types of drugs and so on, but I am not aware of any concern or panic in the industry that this will lead to a shortage of drugs here. It has had quite a long lead in time to be able to change supply chains and to ensure EU certification. I will ask Mr. Karl Gardner to comment on that, but that is my understanding.