Ministers approve tougher rules for pharmacists

MOVES to toughen rules governing pharmacists were approved by the Cabinet yesterday amid opposition party claims animals have more legal protection than chemist customers.

Tánaiste and Health Minister Mary Harney got Government approval for a bill she says will better regulate the industry and could lead to lower prices.

The reform is intended to bring in tougher penalties for chemists guilty of malpractice and cut customer costs through greater competition.