asked the Minister for Health if he will state (a) whether any instructions or directives have been issued to county and other medical officers of health to provide for and lay in adequate reserve stocks of drugs and medical requisites against a possible future shortage or emergency; (b) whether any action has been taken on foot of such instructions and directives, and, if so, what action; (c) whether there has been any joint action or liaison between his Department and the Department of Defence in regard to this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Stocks of Medical Requisites.
Major de Valera
Local authorities and the authorities of voluntary hospitals have been authorised to build up a reserve stock of essential drugs and medical requisites equal to about 12 months' normal supplies and the bulk of the reserves has been ordered. A proportion of these reserve stocks has already been delivered. These stocks are intended primarily to meet the requirements of hospitals and dispensaries and the question of their purchase is accordingly being dealt with by the Department of Health.
There has been full liaison between the Department of Health and the Department of Defence in the matter.
Major de Valera
Did I understand the Taoiseach to say that there has been no liaison between the Departments in this matter?
There has been full liaison.
Major de Valera
Have any steps been taken to lay in emergency supplies which might be wanted for civil defence purposes?
That is being discussed between the two Departments.
Major de Valera
And no action has been taken?
Oh yes. Reserve stocks are being accumulated.
Major de Valera
I understood the Taoiseach to say that these were normal stocks.
Another 12 months' normal supplies.
Major de Valera
Nothing has been done to lay in emergency supplies?
These are emergency supplies.
Twelve months' excess.