Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)

From 1 May, we will have a very serious situation whereby pharmacists will not issue drugs to medical card users. I ask the Leader to bring this matter to a head. I would like to know from the Minister what contingency plans are in place from 1 May onwards. The situation will be serious because the weakest and most vulnerable in our society will be neglected. The schemes administered by the pharmacists are some of the very few schemes that are working in the health service at present, and they provide a massive service throughout the country. Pharmacists are to be complimented on the work they are doing. I hope this dispute can be resolved before 1 May.