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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 23 Apr 1998

Vol. 490 No. 1

Written Answers - Veterinary Medicines.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

10 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has received a report from the authorities in Northern Ireland regarding the action they propose to take arising from newspaper reports (details supplied) that prescription drugs for animals were being sold over the counter in Northern Ireland and being imported to this jurisdiction, particularly in view of the possible impact on consumers' health highlighted by the head of the Food Safety Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9400/98]

From contacts with the Northern Ireland authorities my Department understands that, while their investigations are ongoing, they are constrained by the fact that appropriate details have not been made available to them. It is also understood that the authorities in Northern Ireland have taken the matter up with the veterinary associations and with the Northern Ireland Pharmaceutical Society to remind them of their legal obligations. I am advised that the Association of Veterinary Surgeons Practising in Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Veterinary Association have brought the matter to the attention of their members and reminded them of the legal position as defined in the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons code of conduct. I have outlined in the House my concerns about potential risks to consumers as a result of illegal selling of veterinary medicines and I again give an assurance that the legislation in this area will be enforced, vigorously.

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