Tanaiste seeks probe into Unicare takeover

The Tanaiste, Mary Harney, has asked the Competition Authority to investigate German firm GEHE’s proposed acquisition of the Unicare chain of pharmacies.

If the takeover goes ahead, GEHE will become the largest pharmaceutical retail chain in Ireland.

Ms Harney said she will decide if any action needs to be taken in the interest of competition once she receives the authority’s report.