Pharmacists summoned in row over methadone

A NUMBER of pharmacists who have withdrawn from the methadone treatment scheme were yesterday ordered to appear before a Competition Authority inquiry into a possible breach of competition law.

Gardaí, accompanied by members of the Competition Authority, issued the summons to pharmacists on behalf of the authority when they visited chemists yesterday.

The Irish Pharmaceutical Union (IPU) said the latest development, which was worrying and significant, was unhelpful. A spokesperson said it was the policy of the Competition Authority not to comment on ongoing investigations.