The difficulty that arises in relation to the recognition of UK 4 year pharmacist qualifications is not unique to Ireland, but applies to the recognition of those qualifications in all other Member States under the framework of the 2005 Directive.
My Department and the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI), which is the competent authority in Ireland for the recognition of pharmacist professional qualifications, have both met and engaged in correspondence with the relevant division of the EU Commission on this issue. My Department and the PSI have also engaged with the UK Department of Health and the General Pharmaceutical Council.
Both my Department and the PSI have received legal advice on the options available to remedy this situation. This advice is being considered and further advice is being sought from the Attorney General's Office as a matter of urgency.
The PSI have advised that they are currently in receipt of seven applications for recognition and registration which are impacted by the change resulting from the repeal of the provisions of the 1985 Directives and the implementation of the 2005 Directive. My Department and the PSI are working closely to endeavour to find a legal means by which affected individuals can be registered as pharmacists in Ireland.
