Tim O'Malley (Limerick East, Progressive Democrats)

As far as I am aware, licences for the export of drugs will only be issued if they are being manufactured for export to other countries. Obviously manufacturers will be aware of the different regulations.

The point the Senator made about the Internet is a valid one. I share his concern on the matter. I have had a few meetings with all the different agencies involved. It is not just a problem in Ireland. It is a worldwide phenomenon which is causing serious problems.

The Senator is correct that we have no idea of the damage it is causing. Terrorists are involved and the Internet is also being used to launder money. What people think they are getting on the Internet may be totally different from what they get.

I had a meeting with the Irish Medicines Board, the Irish Patients Association, the Revenue Commissioners, the Garda and all the interested agencies. The Irish Patients Association, in agreement with the Irish Medicines Board, got a small grant recently to research further the matter and advise the Government on it. It is a serious problem which is getting worse. There are significant safety implications for vulnerable people such as psychiatric patients who may start to get medicines on the Internet which would not be prescribed for them or may already be prescribed by their psychiatrist. They may add to it with impunity without the intervention of other doctors. We are examining this area and I would be obliged if the Senator would make suggestions on the matter at any time. The Irish Patients Association, representing consumers, is very interested in this issue. I had several discussions with Mr. Stephen McMahon on the matter.