Drugs price cut will shut outlets

PLANS by the Health Service Executive to cut the price of prescription drugs will see some pharmacies close, the chief executive of the country’s largest drug wholesaler warmed.

United Drug chief executive Liam FitzGerald said the HSE’s move to halve the margin paid out on drugs will make some pharmacies no longer viable.

“Clearly we don’t want to see our customers put in a situation where their business is no longer viable. It is not in our interest and we feel that smaller customers will be significantly disadvantaged by the change,” Mr FitzGerald said.