HSE: No IPU pullout over cuts

DESPITE a threat by pharmacists to withdraw from the community drugs scheme, no pharmacist has given notice of their intention to quit to the Health Service Executive (HSE).

The Irish Pharmaceutical Union (IPU) warned of widespread withdrawal by its members from the scheme at an emergency meeting in Dublin on Wednesday, attended by more than 1,000 pharmacists from around the country.

The meeting was held to discuss the HSE’s cost-cutting measures that pharmacists insist will reduce their incomes by up to 30% and lead to pharmacy closures.