20.03.2012

Council President Timur Erk stated that the regulation was designed in order to prevent thinner-addicts, saying, “During these three years, the number of thinner-addict crimes has decreased by 20-25%. We can therefore say that the law has fulfilled its purpose. However the Regulation Regarding the Protection of Human Health from the Hazards of Volatile Substances in its present state is inhibitive to industrialists.”

- Law-regulation contradictions

Council Member Dr. Erol Özensoy provided detailed information regarding the subject and posited that the regulation is in contradiction with the law. Özensoy stated that it is, according to EU directives, limited to stationary materials, products containing volatile substances used with paint thinners as adhesives and that this does not cover all volatile substances hazardous to human health.

- Undersecretary Tosun

Noting the views of the council members, Undersecretary Prof. Dr. Nihat Tosun said, “You are the ones most technically qualified in regards to this regulation. It is possible for us to consult with the council. In this regard our Ministry’s relevant directorate’s officials and a technical committee from the council will work together.”

- The way will be cleared for the pharmaceuticals industry

Prof. Dr. Nihat Tosun, in his assessment of the VAT problem faced by the pharmaceuticals, emphasized that the Turkish pharmaceuticals sector is in a very good position in the global market, “Turkey Pharmaceuticals and Medical Equipment Institution has been established. Also, in order to raise public awareness Turkish Public Health Institute has begun its activities. Another matter we have been working on for the last 6 years is the establishment of reference laboratories. We will no longer need to send a drug to America to have it confirmed.”