asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the fact that EFTA countries have agreed to a convention for the mutual recognition of inspections in respect of the manufacture of pharmaceutical products; and that this convention could have serious consequences for the Irish pharmaceutical industry exporting to these countries; and, if so, what measures can be taken to introduce a comparable drug control system here that will ensure the retention of the European market for Irish pharmaceutical products.
Ceisteanna — Questions Oral Answers. - Pharmaceutical Products Legislation.
5.
I am aware of the convention referred to in the question.
The Government have approved of the preparation of comprehensive legislation for the control of the manufacture, etc. of pharmaceutical products which will contain appropriate provision for inspections on the lines referred to in the convention. Considerable progress has been made on the drafting of the legislation.
Will this involve quality control?
Yes.