Pharmacists’ dispute - Blame game must end

Pharmacies across the country are threatening not to dispense drugs to people on medical cards and those with chronic long-term illnesses because of cuts by the Department of Health. Over 1,000 pharmacists gathered in Dublin to protest against the cuts.

Former senator John Minihan, a pharmacist taking part in yesterday’s IPU protest in Dublin, said pharmacists recommended five years ago that the cost of drugs could be significantly reduced by allowing pharmacists to dispense less expensive generic drugs. He contended they were blocked, because the minister has an agreement with the drug companies not to allow it.