asked the Minister for Health if any arrangements have been made to introduce legislation to combat doping among athletes; and, if so, if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Doping Among Athletes.
21.
I have no information which would lead me to believe that the practice of doping is carried on to any extent among athletes in this country. The question of the introduction of specific legislation to combat such doping does not therefore arise.
I should, perhaps, say that the sale to the public of substances likely to be involved in this practice is prohibited, except on medical prescription.
It is proposed, however, under paragraph 106 of the White Paper on the Health Services, to introduce an amendment of the Health Acts with the intention of making possession of certain of these substances illegal, except in the case of authorised categories, that is to say, doctors, pharmacists, etc., and persons for whom they have been prescribed. There would also be prohibition of import and export except under licence and probably, powers to search premises—"beat clubs," etc.—where it is suspected that supplies of drugs are illicitly held.