asked the Minister for Health the number of doctors who are co-operating in the implementation of the Health (Family Planning) Act, 1979 with particular reference to patients holding medical cards.
28.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Health (Family Planning) Act.
27.
asked the Minister for Health the number of pharmacists who are co-operating in the implementation of the Health (Family Planning) Act, 1979.
29.
asked the Minister for Health the number of (a) doctors and (b) pharmacists in Dublin who are co-operating in the implementation of the Health (Family Planning) Act, 1979; and the percentage they form of the total number of registered medical practitioners and pharmacists in the area.
I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 27, 28 and 29 together.
Since statistics relating to health services are compiled on an annual basis, the precise information sought is not currently available. In collecting statistics on the first year's operation of the Act the need to obtain the information sought by the Deputies will be borne in mind.
30.
asked the Minister for Health if he will co-operate with the Eastern Health Board in the provision of a comprehensive family planning service in Ballinteer, Dublin 16.
The provision of family planning services by a health board is a matter primarily for that board. I have not seen any specific proposals from the Eastern Health Board relating to the area referred to by the Deputy.
The general approach of the Eastern Health Board, and of other health boards, is based on acceptance of the view that family planning services will normally be provided by the family doctor.
31.
asked the Minister for Health if pharmacies which are controlled by limited companies may supply contraceptives; the percentage of pharmacies so controlled; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Section 4 of the Health (Family Planning) Act does not permit the sale of contraceptives in the pharmacies mentioned in the question. It is understood that these pharmacies account for about 25 per cent of the total of 1,141 community pharmacies.