Press Release: Friday 16 May 2025
Minister for Health Publishes Agreed Framework of Engagement to Commence Contract Talks with the Irish Pharmacy Union
The Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD, has today published a Framework of Engagement to support the commencement of focused talks between the State and Irish Pharmacy Union on the Community Pharmacy Contract and associated services and arrangements, including fees. The Framework has been agreed following extensive preliminary engagement between the Department, the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the Irish Pharmacy Union. It will guide the contract talks between the parties to agree how the funds allocated in Budget 2025 should be best used to address unmet healthcare needs, improve patient outcomes, and provide for enhancements to pharmacy fees.
Recognising a shared commitment to conclude talks and reach a timely agreed outcome, these talks will take place over the next three months, with the first meeting scheduled for Wednesday 21 May 2025.
The Department, HSE and the IPU will now commence a process of meaningful engagement on relevant additions of the Community Pharmacy Contractor Agreement, to support a modernised community pharmacy sector. This will include fee and service arrangements and related matters.
Minister Carroll MacNeill said:
“The future of Community Pharmacy is bright, with real and meaningful opportunities for both our health service and pharmacies on many fronts. I hope that this talks process will help to further facilitate this and contribute towards a sustainable model of community pharmacy.”
“Government remains committed to supporting community pharmacy services through investment, reform and modernisation. These talks are accompanied by an actual clear budget commitment and a significant funding envelope of €50m in terms of the overall health budget.”
“I look forward to working in partnership with community pharmacies to realise a shared ambition for community pharmacy in Ireland.”