John Gormley
Question:107 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps, if any, he has taken to regulate complementary and herbal medicines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9406/00]
Written Answers. - Medicinal Products.
John Gormley
Question:108 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to regulate herbal medicines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9407/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 107 and 108 together.
The licensing of traditional-use of herbal medicinal products is an issue which is being addressed by a working group set up by the EU Pharmaceutical Committee last year. As an early resolution to the difficulties of harmonisation in this area is not anticipated, I have asked the Irish Medicines Board, together with my officials, to investigate the possibility of establishing a simplified interim national licensing system for traditional-use medicinal products which would allow such products to be lawfully marketed in this country.