Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)

The intention is to bring this Act into operation as quickly as possible. However, it is the intention of the HSE GMS payments division to have discussions with the IPU. Subject to any time constraints that may be involved in administration, it will be done as quickly as possible. I hope this will be by 1 September. The intention was for this to happen earlier in the year but unfortunately banking and other legislation took precedence in the office of the Attorney General. The legislation has been somewhat delayed. Subsequent to the passing of the legislation, my officials will enter into discussions with the HSE and representatives of the pharmacy profession as soon as possible.