Sir , – It concerns me greatly that the Government and the EU are not taking a holistic view on the oil supply crisis. Surely they realise that petroleum and natural gas are absolutely critical to active pharmaceutical ingredients which are key for a wide variety of medicines, that polymers derived from oil are used in time release medication, that plastics derived from oils are used in producing IV bags, tubing syringes, blood bags along with PPE (Personal Protection Equipment). They need to prioritise oil and natural gas supplies to the pharmaceutical and medical devices to safeguard hospital operability and pharmacy supplies. – Yours, etc,JAMES DINEEN,Bishopstown,Co Cork.

Source: The Irish Times March 11, 2026 18:01 UTC