There is also the risk that opening up competition within the pharmacy sector will actually lead to the closure of rural pharmacies, with new pharmacies being established in the more economically viable areas. This would mark the decline of these essential community amenities; the very opposite of what your fifth term of reference implies. Simply put, the Irish pharmacy is not merely a business venture; it is an integral part of our primary care system. The pharmacist is also the first port of call for many who don't have a medical card and are looking for medical advice. The customer gets free advice and reassurance.