asked the Minister for Health if his Department have completed investigations on a report that a drug company (name supplied) operating from Dublin was marketing a drug in England under a misleading name; if he will state the findings of the Department regarding this matter, and if he will indicate what action will be taken.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Marketing of Drug.
30.
The firm in question has so far failed to furnish replies to specific inquiries which I addressed to it some three months ago and this has held up the completion of my investigations into this matter. I am considering at present what further action is open to me.
The Deputy is I am sure aware that on 6th November, 1967 I communicated with health authorities and advised them against the use in the health services of this firm's products.
Can the Minister say how much of the firm's products are at present in use by Dublin Health Authority, in view of his statement and advice to the health authority?
I should be interested to know.
I know they are at present using their products. If the company do not reply, what action does the Minister think can be taken against them?
I do not think any action can be taken here against them because there is no evidence——
The drugs were sent from Ireland.
Are licences granted for such exports?
I suppose they are.
What about withdrawing the licences?
If I can, I will. I should be grateful for any information about the use of the firm's drugs.
Could the Minister not stop payments by the health authority to this firm, as they have ignored his request? The same must apply to every other health authority.
They also refused to answer queries from the British Ministry of Health. They ignored all queries.
Yes. I should be glad of any information on the matter.
Is the Minister aware that the drug referred to in the question is apparently being used by Dublin Health Authority?
No, I am not so aware.
Is the Minister satisfied that it is not?
This is the first intimation I have received that this is the situation. I should be glad of information. I shall make inquiries straight away.