Alex White (Dublin South, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Let there be no misunderstanding. I have no difficulty understanding the point. The Deputy said it was simple. I understand entirely the issue being raised. However, I have said I need some more detail to get to the bottom of it and that is what I am asking the Deputy for. It may appear and sound straightforward in the way it is described but I need further information.

I understand the concern of the Deputy. However, nothing is ever completely straightforward in this world. For example, it can arise that a single prescribed item is required to be dispensed in different strengths or containers and it is therefore claimed as more than one item. A prescription charge will apply to each claimed strength of a product in such a circumstance. That may or may not be the type of circumstance that occurred in the case raised by the Deputy. Whereas on the face of it the question may sound straightforward such that we should give an immediate response, in fact we cannot simply give an immediate response. However, I am giving a clear undertaking to the Deputy that if the further information that I have reasonably sought can be produced, then I will certainly look at this issue.

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