Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Nov 2000

Vol. 526 No. 3

Written Answers. - Community Pharmacy Agreement.

John McGuinness

Question:

274 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a community pharmacy contractor agreement has not been granted to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny in view of the fact that there is no legitimate objection or proof showing that the new contract would affect the quality of pharmacy services being provided by existing pharmacies; if he will grant the contract in the absence of the proof required and in view of the community demand; if he will recognise the growing demands since the review board met in October 1997 and make a statement on this application and on the number of applications which are pending; and his intentions on the issue. [26713/00]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The decision of the chief executive officer of the SEHB to refuse the application for a community pharmacy contractor agreement referred to by the Deputy has been appealed to me under the Health (Community Pharmacy Contractor Agreement) Regulations, 1996. My decision in the matter will be communicated to the appellant and to the chief executive officer shortly. In the meantime, the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the details of the matter or on my intentions in regard to the appeal.