Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Taoiseach for giving his view. When the Cabinet subcommittee meets again, will it discuss medicine shortages? This is an issue that has been constantly raised with me and it is challenging for patients throughout the country. Pharmacists are finding that while there would have always been some medication shortages, the breadth and number of medications that are in short supply this year is much more unusual and hugely overwhelming. A recent survey of Irish Pharmacy Union, IPU, members found that over 60% found that there were 40 or more medications in short supply. This is not just prescription medications but also over-the-counter medications. This means that if you take a common lotion for eye care, for example, which was out of supply for several months, you are required to get an alternative by going to a GP, and that is adding to the burden on GPs. Will this be discussed and will a plan be put in place, such as the serious shortage protocol they have in the UK? What kind of measures can be put in place to deal with this?

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