Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 September 2018
465. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Minister for Health the steps that have been taken to ensure the supply of medication in the event of a no-deal Brexit scenario; if the contingency plans that are put in place will ensure that there will be no interruption or disturbance in the supply of medication and drugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37329/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra529. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health the plans he and the medical profession are making to ensure that Brexit does not interfere with the supply of essential medicines and treatments to persons; the risk assessments taking place on access to treatments, supplements and so on from the UK; if alternative supply sources are being investigated to ensure that there is no blockage in the supply chain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37533/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra531. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to media reports of stockpiling of medicine in the lead-up to Brexit and fears regarding a hard Brexit; the work being undertaken to ensure that there is no issue with accessing medicines, treatments, food supplements and so on from the UK; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37535/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 465, 529 and 531 together.
In co-ordination with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Department of Health and its agencies, including the HSE and the Health Products Regulatory Authority, are engaging in intensive Brexit preparedness and contingency planning in the area of health. This includes planning for a no-deal Brexit scenario.
A number of issues are being examined and contingency planning for a range of eventualities is under way. One key issue will be to ensure that there is minimum disruption to health services and that essential services are maintained on a cross-Border, all-island and Ireland-UK basis.
Priorities include ensuring continuity in the supply of medicines/medical devices, ensuring access to services, recognition of qualifications, continuation of existing cross border health co-operation and public health arrangements.
In addition to working with the relevant agencies, the Department of Health will continue to support the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in its engagements with the European Commission’s Article 50 Taskforce and its Brexit Preparedness Unit.
