Minister hails €50m drugs distribution depot

A global pharmaceutical firm today opened a €50m international drugs distribution depot in west Dublin. Minister for Health Mary Harney said the United Drug’s facility in Citywest Business Park would deliver value for money in the health services.

“It is important that we get value for money in every aspect of the health services and particularly in relation to drugs and medicines,” she said, performing the opening.

“Ensuring the most modern supply chain management is essential for achieving that objective, and therefore I welcome the development of this new distribution facility.”

The new facility will employ over 500 people and make United Drug one of the largest individual employers in the west Dublin area.

The 15-acre centre will distribute more than 200,000 orders each week to over 500 pharmacies on a twice daily basis.

Its clients include 200 national and international pharmacies including firms specialising in veterinary, medical and scientific, consumer health and health & beauty services.

Today’s opening was attended by United Drug’s chairman, Martin Rafferty and chief executive, Liam FitzGerald.

Mr FitzGerald explained that the hi-tech centre emphasised the importance the firm placed on quality, safety and efficiency in the healthcare supply chain.

“Distributors and wholesalers of healthcare products represent the vital link in the delivery of a safe and efficient healthcare supply chain ensuring critical products are available to patients when and where they need them,” he added.

The facility also houses the firm’s three other key business divisions: Contract Distribution; Contract Sales Outsourcing; and Medical & Scientific.