Pay cuts: Health Minister Harney defends ‘vital’ cost-savings

HEALTH Minister Mary Harney defended the cuts in payments to pharmacists at a special meeting of Fianna Fáil TDs and senators last night.

Several of the Fianna Fáil members have been getting “grief” on the issue in their constituencies, one party source said last night.

This is both from the Irish Pharmacists’ Union, which has lobbied on the issue, and constituents who are fearful of being unable to get their prescriptions locally should services be withdrawn.

Ms Harney wrote to the Fianna Fáil TDs and senators in advance of the meeting outlining her position in detail.

She said it was “vital” that the state made savings in health spending and the reductions in dispensing fees and mark-ups paid to pharmacists was necessary.

“I recognise that this will pose a challenge for the pharmacy sector,” she said. “However, not making these savings will be even more challenging for the health services.”

Pharmacists would still receive “substantial” fees and income even after the reductions, she insisted.

“In the economic downturn, many people are having their income reduced by far greater amounts – particularly people who have lost their jobs,” she added.