Vol. 473 No. 3
51 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the concern of many people in relation to the high cost of medication (details supplied); if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that there is a huge variation in the price of this product between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland; the proposals, if any, he has to have the cost of his medication reduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25004/96]
Limerick East): The medical product in question is indicated for use in the treatment of a number of cardiovascular conditions. I am aware that there is a significant variation in price in respect of the generic form of this product in Northern Ireland and within the State. This is due in large measure to a vibrant generic market in Great Britain and in Northern Ireland where the overall market is much larger and where there is significant competition which affects prices charged for generic medicines. It is understood that there are a number of suppliers of the generic form of this product in the Great Britain and Northern Ireland market and these companies are reimbursed by the state authorities at a tariff (flat rate) price for the product.
Due to the nature of the pricing agreements with the pharmaceutical industry some discrepancies exist between the prices of individual products in Ireland and the UK. However, overall the current agreement has resulted in a stabilisation of prices in Ireland as compared with the rest of Europe given that a price freeze exists for the duration of the current agreement.
The current pricing agreement with the pharmaceutical industry is due for renegotiation shortly and the pricing of generic products will be one of the issues examined in the course of these negotiations.
