asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether he is aware it is alleged that numbers of pharmacies in various parts of Dublin, in which prescriptions are compounded by unqualified assistants, are being conducted and managed by persons who are not licensed by the Pharmaceutical Society; and whether he will take such steps as are necessary to protect the public in the matter.

No representations to the effect stated in the first part of the question have been made to the Minister for Local Government and Public Health. If any such cases come under notice, or if the Deputy is aware of any infringement of the Pharmacy Act, the circumstances should be reported to the Pharmaceutical Society, which investigates charges of the nature mentioned. When a prima facie case is established, the Minister understands proceedings are instituted.

Then the Pharmaceutical Society can take action?

I understand so.

The Minister has no functions?

So far as I am aware, the Minister has no functions other than undertaking to forward complaints, if any were made to him.