Geraldine Feeney (Fianna Fail)

Will the Leader have an urgent debate on the withdrawal by pharmacists of the methadone service? I have referred to the professionalism of pharmacists in the House on many occasions, and I have also referred to how well trained they are and the good service they provide. However, I must point out today that most of their income is derived from the State. In recent years they have prospered greatly and now hold and own very valuable assets.

The withdrawal of the methadone service in such a concerted way by the pharmacists reeks of bully-boy tactics. They are exceptionally well paid for what they are doing in respect of the service, which is based on a contract with the Health Service Executive and is different from all the other services they provide.

The withdrawal of the service is being used as a blunt negotiating tool with which to deal with the Health Service Executive. This is a disgrace and the people most affected are vulnerable addicts who are trying to wean themselves off the terrible scourge of heroin, and also their families. I call on the Leader to have a debate on this matter as early as possible. It is about time the pharmacists knew they are not backed by the public in this matter. I have stood with them in respect of other issues but am moving away from them because the people being affected are those we represent.