Bernard Allen
Ceist:117 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health if he will outline the way in which he proposes to implement new EC restrictions on the promotional activities of pharmaceutical companies.
Written Answers. - Pharmaceutical Promotion Restrictions.
The Deputy will be aware that the EC Directive in question has to be implemented by all member states before 1 January 1993.
Although the Directive contains mandatory measures relating to the advertisement and promotion of medicinal products for human consumption including provisions for an appropriate complaints procedure, it allows member states some discretion in relation to how these provisions should be implemented and monitored. My Department are currently examining the various provisions with a view to putting in place appropriate measures which would meet this country's obligations under the Directive. The Department are also in discussions with the Federation of Irish Chemical Industries in relation to the possibility of self regulation by means of a strengthened Code of Conduct for the industry which would meet the requirements of the Directive.