Ivor Callely (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Harney, for coming to the House. The issue before the House on matters relating to community pharmacists should not take up the time of this Chamber, the Minister or the Dáil Chamber, as it did last Thursday. This is because the principal parties involved, namely the HSE and the community pharmacists, should be able to resolve this issue. I understand from speaking to a number of pharmacists, whom I know well, that the vast majority of community pharmacists wish to assist in finding a resolution. They support the view that savings can be made. The intransigent position taken by the HSE, regardless of the fallout, is regrettable.

Reform and reduction in the cost of medication is welcome. I will mention something stated earlier by a Senator; he may wish that I did not state it in his absence.