Seanad debates

Wednesday, 21 November 2012

11:10 am

Photo of Martin ConwayMartin Conway (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Like previous speakers, I am also concerned about reports to the effect that a doctor infected with hepatitis C continued to practise despite the fact that he had received a diagnosis. Doctors are supposed to make people well; they are not supposed to make them sick. I am extremely concerned with regard to what has emerged in this case. A report into this matter must be compiled as soon as possible. The HSE must indicate the protocols it has in place to deal with situations of this nature. Is there a process whereby doctors are required to submit information which indicates that they have a clean bill of health before they are allowed to operate on patients, etc.?

I was very disturbed to learn of unhelpful and unhealthy developments relating to the tobacco industry. Most of the companies in this industry put between 20 and 23 cigarettes in a pack. This is encouraging people to smoke even more. Previous speakers, particularly Senator Crown, referred to the dangers of smoking. I am extremely concerned that tobacco companies are pushing the boundaries in the context of their activities in retail outlets. I understand they are running promotions and offering staff vouchers and money to promote certain brands of cigarette. This is a ruthless and dangerous business and it is costing taxpayers hundreds of millions of euro in terms of the effect tobacco products have on people's health. I request that the Minister for Health, who is dedicated to eradicating smoking to the greatest degree possible in this country, come before the House in the near future to discuss the introduction of further regulations and legislation, if necessary, to deal with the tobacco companies which are constantly trying to push out the boundaries in the context of what they can do to promote cigarettes. I hope such a debate will be arranged in due course.

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