Brendan Ryan (Labour)

If that is the case, what difference will it make? It is always better for these decisions to be made by people who are somewhat detached from the maelstrom of politics. I accept that the medical jury is out on this issue but if there emerges significant medical evidence that heroin has palliative benefits or that cannabis is a suitable prescription for people with multiple sclerosis will there be a political row or will the competent professional body be allowed to decide? Might the Minister veto the Irish Medicines Board if it deems it necessary and appropriate that the two substances should be made available under controlled conditions?