asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the disappointment among qualified pharmacists at the delay in bringing into operation section 2 of the Pharmacy Act, 1962; what is the cause of the delay; and when this section of the Act will be brought into operation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pharmacy Act.
156.
Yes. Discussions have been held with the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland in this regard.
It is not practicable to bring section 2 of the Pharmacy Act, 1962, into operation until regulations are made under section 14 of the Poisons Act, 1961. As provided for in this latter section, Comhairle na Nimheanna has been consulted and recommendations for comprehensive regulations have been received from that body. These recommendations, which are complex and far-reaching, are being examined in my Department which is at present in consultation with Comhairle na Nimheanna about them. When these regulations are made, section 2 of the Pharmacy Act, 1962, will be brought into operation.