Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is important that this issue has been discussed on every Stage. I will not labour the points made previously, but it is not rocket science. Pharmacists already dispense this treatment without a prescription. They dispense it to those who can access it privately and no training is needed. Systems are already in place to deal with other items and medicines dispensed under the community drug schemes and so on. Other unified claim forms carrying, for example, the patient's medical card number signed by the pharmacist could be easily provided. This has been ongoing for a long time. I appreciate that work has started and that we are trying, but when will we succeed? I take it from the Minister of State's answer that there has been no dialogue with the IPU since Committee Stage, but perhaps I picked her up wrong. The HSE has discussed the matter, but a discussion has not been held with the IPU. Given that it was to the fore in facilitating the discussion, that is where it needs to be held. I see no reason for a delay. When the Minister of State replies, will she assure the House that there is no issue with cost?

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