asked the Minister for Agriculture the purposes for which chloramphenicol is used; the testing which is carried out to ensure that meat on sale to the general public or for export is not contaminated by this drug; and the action which is being taken by his Department to prevent improper usage.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Use of Antibiotic.
5.
Chloramphenicol is an antibiotic which has a wide range of activity against all forms of bacterial organisms and can be used to treat many forms of bacterial infections. Its importance lies in its use in human medicine in the treatment of typhoid and other serious illnesses. Its use in animal husbandry is only permitted where it is known to be effective and where there is no suitable alternative medicine available.
Under regulations introduced in 1985 chloramphenicol may only be administered by or under the direct supervision of a veterinary surgeon and it may only be purchased from pharmacists on foot of a veterinary prescription. Specific records must be maintained regarding the issue of such prescriptions and the use of the medicine.
The regulations are enforced by authorised officers of my Department who regularly carry out investigations to ensure that chloramphenicol and other controlled substances are not on sale through unapproved channels. Bovine identity cards are checked at slaughtering plants to ensure that mandatory withdrawal periods for such substances are observed and meat samples are tested for residues of chloramphenicol and other antibiotics.
(Limerick West): As there seems to be some unease abroad—particularly bearing in mind improved sales of beef and dairy products, sales of agricultural produce generally at home and abroad—will the Minister ensure that criticisms of the kind implied in Deputy Shatter's question, whether well founded or not, are minimised by the implementation of proper controls? In view of the unease felt abroad would the Minister ensure greater monitoring of the situation?
I am very concerned indeed that there be no abuses of antibiotics or hormones. If there are abuses I am quite sure they are perpetrated by a small minority but it should be remembered that even a small minority can do tremendous damage to the industry. I might point out that chloramphenicol is a substance which has been under review since 1974 and that since 1 November last it can be administered only by a vet or prescribed by a vet. That control is very tight. I have instructed officials of my Department that any abuses of antibiotics or hormones—antibiotics such as chloramphenicol—should be dealt with severely. I might add that, as late as last week, we encountered a case in which supplies of this particularly dangerous antibiotic—dangerous if administered improperly—have been seized.
Is the Minister aware of the thriving black market business in these substances, in particular on the part of what are known as travelling chemist shops whose usual haunts are marts and fairs? Furthermore, would he say what steps his officials are taking to ensure that such substances are subjected to rigid controls?
The supplies to which I referred were seized within the last week. I have given strict instructions that where any abuse arises, where there is selling of illegal substances, tough measures are to be taken. I am very concerned that such measures be pursued to their limit.
Could the Minister state how long the residues last once administered to an animal?
I am sorry, I do not have that information. I could tell the Deputy something that might not be the truth. I would rather admit that I do not know.