Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)

I am not sure about the acid but I will forward all the information I have on the matter to the Deputy. I have asked for extensive information because the Deputy has raised the issue twice and has not received satisfactory answers to date.

The special import licence can issue quite quickly once approval is granted in a member state. Obviously, I am anxious for Ireland to get the most effective treatment available globally for this problem. The advice I have received is that the most suitable product is expected to be authorised shortly within another member state. As soon as that happens we will act quickly. I am advised that the Department hopes to get sanction for the product for this year's season. I accept that we are operating within a tight time constraint but I will try to push the matter within the Department given that the Deputy has been raising it for some time.

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