Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 172: To ask the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a significant street market has emerged for the sale of prescription drugs; his plans to make the sale of such drugs, without due authorisation, a criminal offence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26765/11]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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I am informed that An Garda Síochána is aware of the misuse of prescribed drugs, most frequently in circumstances where illegal substances subject to the Misuse of Drugs Acts have become scarce due to law enforcement measures. Medicinal products which have the potential to be misused are controlled under the Misuse of Drugs legislation. There are additional controls on the prescribing, dispensing, supply and possession of prescription medicines which are controlled drugs. The legislation provides for prosecutions in circumstances where substances seized, including prescribed drugs, are controlled substances under the legislation.

Through the framework of the National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016, my Department is working in collaboration with the relevant statutory agencies to monitor the availability of controlled drugs, including prescription medicines, through illicit supply channels.

My Department and the HSE are actively engaged in the consideration of measures to improve practices regarding the use of benzodiazepines and other related medicines and are reviewing legislative measures on the control of these substances.

I can assure the Deputy that the enforcement of the law relating to the sale of drugs, including prescription drugs, continues to be a priority in the Government's commitment to tackling the issue of drug misuse.