Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

Will the Leader ask the Minister for Health and Children to urgently postpone the date of commencement of proposed legislation on pharmacies? It should not be implemented because of the serious situation that will ensue if it is commenced. Under the proposed legislation pharmacists will occur a loss on every GMS dispensed item. From speaking to pharmacists in my area, I was informed that between 30 to 40 employees in one pharmacy will be put on protective notice. This is most unfair and the Minister must engage in discussion with the pharmacists. The Minister has not met the pharmacists or Mr. Shipsey since 8 November. That will not solve anything. The Minister needs to engage with the pharmacists.