More disruption on the cards in pharmacists’ dispute

More disruption is being anticipated during the coming days as the row between the HSE and the Irish Pharmacy Union continues.

The dispute centres on fee cuts to pharmacies who take part in State drugs schemes.

Several hundred pharmacies across the country have stopped dispensing medicines to people on the community drug and medical card scheme.

They claim the cuts will result in job losses and business closures.

The HSE has put a plan in place to ensure that people who need medication can get it.

Their contingency plans came in for criticism yesterday with reports of problems in rural areas.

National director with the HSE, Laverne McGuinness, said the organisation will provide assistance to anyone who needs it.