Based on feedback from members of our Workforce Working Group, we submitted a response to the PSI on the recent public consultation on their proposal to amend the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI) (Registration) Rules 2008 to 2020; this submission can be read here. In this submission, we welcomed the more holistic approach and the planned additional supportive mechanisms for applicants who undertake the adaptation period. However, we highlighted that our overriding concerns with the current TCQR route had not been addressed with the proposed amended PSI (Registration) Rules i.e.
- The timeline for the applicants is ambiguous and lengthy compared to other healthcare professionals in Ireland;
- The known issue of non-EEA pharmacists being unable to obtain a visa to allow completion of the mandatory adaptation period still needs to be solved; and
- The known issue regarding the significant support required at the application stage has yet to be addressed; the proposed route does nothing to address the delays and frustration currently experienced by non-EEA pharmacists.
We also highlighted the significant resource pressures being felt by community pharmacists at present and requested that the rules be amended to include specified timelines for the PSI to process valid applications and maximum timelines for all other stages of the 5-stage process.
