I would like to ask about the rationale behind the decision on blister packs that were available through local pharmacies and whether the Taoiseach is aware of the significant impact this is having on patients in counties Cavan and Monaghan and around the country. They are used selectively for patients with dementia or cognitive impairment, intellectual disabilities, significant physical or dexterity impairment, multiple chronic conditions and polypharmacy. Blister packs are not a convenience; they are a vital safety measure that supports medication adherence, independence and reduces the risk of hospitalisations. Evidence consistently shows that the unintentional non-adherence, for example, a person forgetting their dose, etc., worsens the disease, increases hospital admissions, and leads to higher health care costs. Vulnerable groups, particularly older adults, people with dementia and those on multiple medicines are at the highest risk. Community pharmacists are uniquely placed to mitigate this risk. They will support targeted, assessed use, clear eligibility criteria, ongoing review of governance and alignment with patient safety guidelines. Will the Taoiseach outline what consultations took place? I know the decision has been deferred but will he commit to reviewing this decision as a matter of urgency to ensure that vulnerable patients are not put at risk?

The Minister for Health has explained this. No formal decision was taken by Government or by the Minister in respect of blister packs. The Minister has made the point that there have been different practices in different pharmacies across the country. Some did not charge at all. It is my understanding that some charged very minor rates such as €5 or €10. However, others charged using another scheme, which, according to the HSE, was not allowable and should not have been used. The Minister is engaging with the various representative bodies to see what workable solution can be devised. It is not quite as it has been presented and the Minister has clarified that. We are conscious of the need and that some cohorts of patients are in greater need than others.