asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if in view of the fact that the cost of medicines in the Waterford health authority area appears to be increasing rather rapidly he will carry out an inquiry into the prices which the public must pay for medicines at the present time in order to allay public unrest in this matter.

I am not aware that the cost of medicines has been increasing in the Waterford health authority area. For the reasons stated in reply to a recent question, I do not consider an enquiry into the prices of medicines is necessary. If, however, the Deputy will furnish me with information regarding increases in the prices of medicines in the Waterford health area, I will have the matter examined.