Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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Question 54: To ask the Minister for Finance the legislation he is reviewing in relation to the strengthening of the law regarding the illegal importation of prescription drugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26718/12]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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The Deputy may be aware this is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Health.

However, I understand the Department of Health is reviewing the Misuse of Drugs Regulations with a view to introducing additional controls on certain prescription drugs being traded illicitly, for example benzodiazepine medicines. These additional controls include introducing import and export controls as well as an offence of possession, thereby assisting the law enforcement roles of Customs and of the Garda Siochána.

The Department of Health will consult with key stakeholders in relation to the proposed amendments.