Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

The Minister knows that those organisations provide tremendous service to the local communities. Points are often made about the role of the local pharmacist in those issues. As I have said before about Tallaght, for a while we sent our problems on the bus into Pearse Street to have these matters dealt with, which should not be the way. I am glad we have made enlightened progress in many communities in that regard. I am glad the pharmacists throughout Tallaght have been able to respond in a positive way, at times in the face of some local opposition, in providing good service. The Minister will acknowledge that is being done and it is worth taking every opportunity to put on the record our support in that regard.

I cannot stress enough how important the role of the local pharmacist is in that regard. The Minister's remark emphasises the role they can play. In considering drugs services and other services not everybody agrees with the way these matters are addressed. However, ultimately I support the role the pharmacists have taken, not only in my community but also throughout Dublin and the country, where clearly there are now challenges regarding drugs. We should acknowledge what is being done and the positive response those pharmacists have made to these issues.

Pharmacists can develop their services in a competitive environment. While it is not for me to tell them, pharmacists can be innovative in many ways. When the Square opened in October 1990, many people believed it would kill off all the local shops and services. As in many other communities, that has not happened. People will continue to access first-class effective services in the local community while also going to various shopping centres. It is a concept that is successful. While we will go to the similar centres for major purchases — of course there is only one Square — we will continue to access local services locally. Clearly the concept of a network of local pharmacies works and people continue to go to local pharmacies. I am sure I will get letters from those running the various pharmacies in the Square, to which I look forward — I have no problem with that. I go to the Square most days. I ask Deputy Durkan not to tell people that I go into the Square every day because I am keeping it a secret.

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