I disagree. High grade, high priced meers are indeed available. They may not have the amber bit but, other than that outstanding meers are indeed available and at premium prices, of course. I've run across one or two in GB, not seen a one in Ireland for sale, however.
Some have had good luck going to Turkey and buying close to the source. Much as I like my meerschaum pipes, I'm not going into a war zone to add to my little collection. Been there, done that, years ago and never saw a pipe for sale! Still, I do keep my eyes open when traveling in Europe. You never know what you might stumble onto.