asked the Minister for Health the total amount of drugs prescribed and dispensed at psychiatric outpatient clinics in each of the last five years; and if he is satisfied with this arrangement.

Exact information on the amount of drugs prescribed and dispensed at these clinics is not available but it is estimated that the total annual expenditure is not more than £½ million. The extent to which drugs are prescribed and dispensed at these clinics varies from area to area. In recent years the practice, which I am anxious to encourage, is developing whereby patients attend for only a limited period at the psychiatric clinic and are then referred back to their family doctor for continuing treatment. However, I am satisfied that there must be a continuing arrangement for the issue of drugs at the clinics.

Is the Minister aware of the recommendations of the chief psychiatrist of the Eastern Health Board that this practice be discontinued immediately?

Yes, indeed, I am.

Does he propose to give the necessary effect to legislation to have it brought about?

No, I am not prepared to take any precipitate action. I discuss these matters from time to time with the chief psychiatrist but, as the Deputy knows, there are different views.