Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I recently drew Senators' attention to a track and trace system for counterfeit medicines because it is important the House is aware of the system and its benefits. Yesterday, the European Medicines Agency drew to public attention the efforts being made by criminal gangs to cash in on the H1N1 pandemic by selling counterfeit anti-influenza vaccines over the Internet. This development is likely to catch the attention of many people who would not otherwise consider sourcing medicines over the Internet.

To add to Senator Callely's point, when I raised the issue of counterfeit tobacco in the House a couple of weeks ago, I was unaware that smuggled tobacco was counterfeit or that the products featured Irish markings and health warnings. Last week's coup by the Garda Síochána in detecting a large haul of counterfeit cigarettes from the Far East reminds us of what can happen in that area. In this context, it is important to note that counterfeit anti-viral drugs have joined the list of counterfeit goods such as cigarettes. If we do not draw public attention to the problem, it is likely that many citizens will purchase such items on the Internet.

I understand the latest anti-viral vaccine may not be available to everyone who wants it. For this reason, many people may try to source it on the Internet. That criminal gangs are seeking to sell counterfeit anti-viral medicines on the Internet is a dangerous development. The Minister for Health and Children should be aware that a track and trace system is being tested in Sweden. We should adopt it when it becomes available.