Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 December 2012
565. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Health if he will indicate the current position on the rollout of the system of invigilation of the pharmacy sector by the Pharmaceutical Society and whether that system includes any early warning or mediation-type process for possible breaches of regulation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53734/12]
View answerThe Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI) is an independent statutory body, established by the Pharmacy Act 2007. It is charged with, and is accountable for, the effective regulation of pharmacists and pharmacies in Ireland, including responsibility for supervising compliance with the Act.
Part 6 of the Act sets out the fitness to practice functions of the PSI. Under this Part, a person may make a complaint against a pharmacist or pharmacy and the statutory process for dealing with such complaints is set out. Part 7 of the Act deals with the PSI's powers and duties in relation to inspection and enforcement. The PSI is responsible for inspecting pharmacies and taking enforcement action (such as prosecutions) for breach of relevant legislation. This part of the Act was commenced in late 2008. The PSI has been undertaking inspections from 2009 under the Act and has completed a total of 1091 inspections to date. Under the Act there is provision for mediation where a complaint is made against a pharmacist or pharmacy. The Act does not provide for mediation where there have been possible breaches of regulation by a pharmacy or pharmacists.
