Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

Is there any possibility that legislation could be brought forward in 2010 to ensure savings are made? How will the Minister reduce the price of generic drugs? How much will be saved through reference pricing? What drugs will be excluded?

The international trends and advice on prescription charges have not been taken on board by the Government in introducing these prices for people who are struggling to cope in Ireland today. The Minister should be tougher on the pharmaceutical industry rather than taking this approach. This target is far too easy and I am very concerned about the health implications. If the Minister insists on persevering with this legislation which also gives her the power to increase the charge - therefore, this might just be the beginning - I urge her to consider other vulnerable groups for exclusion from its remit, particularly those with certain chronic long-term conditions that affect mental as well as physical health.