- Framework Sets Path to Sustainable Future for Pharmacy Services
- IPU Endorses Revised HRT Scheme Proposal
16 May 2025 – The Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) has welcomed commencement of talks under a new framework agreement with the Department of Health and Health Service Executive aimed at securing the sustainable future of pharmacy services.
Approved today by Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD, the agreement includes commitments to review pharmacy fees, reduce administrative burdens, and support digitalisation. It also paves the way for the much-anticipated expansion of pharmacy services, as recommended last year by an Expert Taskforce.
The IPU welcomes the alignment of the framework themes with the IPU “Vision for Community Pharmacy in 2030” launched this year as a blueprint for a more integrated, patient-centric pharmacy system. The IPU’s vision is for pharmacies to play a central role in health promotion, early detection, disease management and convenient access to timely care. The agreement reflects the future, recognising the evolving role of pharmacists, the need for sustainable funding, and the importance of enabling technologies and systems that empower pharmacists to devote more time to patient care.
IPU President Tom Murray said: “This framework represents the most comprehensive commitment to the future of Irish pharmacy in decades. Pharmacies have immense potential to improve healthcare in communities nationwide. This framework should enable us to realise that potential, benefiting the healthcare system, the nationwide community pharmacy network, and most importantly, patients.”
He continued, “Enhanced services require a sustainably resourced sector, and we welcome the allocation of €50m of annual recurring funding and the associated commitment to address the pharmacy fee structure.”
Confirming the IPU’s endorsement of the revised HRT Scheme, Mr. Murray added: “Our main priority with the HRT Scheme has been to ensure women receive the medication they need without cost. We are endorsing the scheme in good faith, backed by the broader commitments in this framework, including a review of the pharmacy fee structure.”
Clare Fitzell, newly appointed Secretary General of the IPU, also welcomed the framework. “We are encouraged by the ambition and scope of this framework and look forward to collaborating with the Department of Health and HSE on its implementation.
However, time is critical. Pharmacies have highlighted the growing pressures of the current funding model for years, and each month of delay compounds this challenge. It’s imperative that this framework progresses into a fully formed contractual agreement without delay. We therefore acknowledge and welcome the intention for the process to be completed within three months ahead of the busy winter season.”
She concluded: “We thank the Minister for Health for her personal commitment to realising the potential of pharmacists’ professional role, and our wider role in community healthcare delivery. The IPU will remain fully engaged in ensuring its swift and effective conclusion.”
ENDS
