Security tops agenda at pharmacists' conference

Security for chemists is top of the agenda at the annual conference of the Irish Pharmaceutical Union in Athlone this weekend.

The body, which represents more than 15,000 pharmacists around the country, says the number of violent attacks on pharmacies is increasing and action is needed to combat the threat.

Last year, there were 91 reported incidents of burglaries, raids and attacks on pharmacies and their staff.

This weekend's conference is hearing a number of motions calling on Justice Minister Michael McDowell to address the situation.