Irish Pharmacy Union says fees have not increased in 16 years and pharmacists are operating State schemes at a loss

Representative body calls for the appointment of a chief pharmaceutical officer as exists in other countries

Irish Pharmacy Union says serious shortage protocol under new legislation will ease pressure on doctors, pharmacists and patients

One source working in the pharmaceutical industry warned about the use of EMPs, stating there were two recalls in the sector in recent months for potential harm to patients

IPU says many pharmacies are losing income as drug payment thresholds drop

Rising labour costs thrown into sharp relief as waning interest in Covid vaccinations exposes finances of rural chemists

Irish Pharmacy Union says it’s ‘impossible’ for some professionals from outside EU to get visa for training here

As shortages bite, many beleaguered pharmacists are ringing GPs to request alternative antibiotics

Amid a GP shortage, many of those remaining are struggling to keep up with mammoth workloads

Problems with communication are exacerbating a difficult winter as supply chain issues mean a growing number of medicines are not available

‘Serious shortage protocol’ would allow alternative antibiotics to be dispensed without need to contact GPs

Full potential of this sector must be embraced as staffing and cost challenges mount

Community pharmacists tell of long hours, no breaks and being asked to forgo annual leave as pandemic increases pressure

Industry calls for more third-level places and reduction of needless paperwork

Tentative optimism as to variant’s limited capacity to harm as situation stays serious

Ambulances, pharmacies and nursing homes among services affected by staff absences

Price of devices escalate as supply becomes tighter, according to pharmacists

More than 1.3 million boosters are given in State so far in race against highly contagious Omicron variant

Chemists to provide boosters to over 50s, despite receiving go-ahead for range of cohorts

Older and more vulnerable patients remain prioritised for Covid-19 vaccination