James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Page 54 of the programme for Government refers to the expansion of the role of pharmacists. The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland, PSI, recently approved rules significantly restricting the roles of pharmacists' assistants.

This puts their livelihoods at very real risk and jeopardises the provision of pharmacy services, especially in rural areas and for sole traders. The vast majority affected are women and most are retiring in the next five to ten years. They have made a valuable contribution to their community and have done so in a safe manner. It is baffling that these proposals are being made now, and many are very upset at seeing their professionalism and integrity effectively being brought into question. Will the Taoiseach allay the fears that their professionalism will be undermined by these rules?

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