Press Release: Tuesday 20 January 2026
Minister announces new Framework Agreements in principle with Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) and Medicines for Ireland (MFI) on Supply and Pricing of Medicines
The Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD today announced the successful conclusion of two new Framework Agreements in principle with the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) and Medicines for Ireland (MFI) on the pricing and supply of medicines. These landmark agreements reflect the Government’s commitment to ensuring timely access to innovative medicines for patients as well as supporting security of supply of medicines, reducing the risk of medicine shortages for patients while safeguarding the sustainability of the health service.
At a time of uncertainty in international pharmaceutical policy, these Agreements, developed in close partnership between the Department of Health, the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service and Digitalisation, Health Service Executive (HSE) and the pharmaceutical sector, will support greater predictability and stability in respect of Ireland’s pharmaceutical and medicines supply.
The Agreements provide a range of measures to:
- Deliver faster access for patients including a commitment and a structured process towards achieving a 180-day timeline for reimbursement decisions;
- Strengthen security of supply of medicines and reduce the risk of shortages of medicines to patients;
- Encourage off-patent launches, streamlining access to medicines;
- Support Financial Sustainability;
Minister Carroll MacNeill said:
“Today’s announcement sends a strong message to patients and innovators that Ireland is a positive environment for industry that rewards innovation, affordability, and the stable supply of generic and biosimilar medicines for the benefit of Irish patients.
“The Agreement in Principle with IPHA represents a major step forward in improving access to medicines for patients in Ireland. It strikes a balance between fostering innovation and maintaining financial sustainability, as well as providing for improved certainty and predictability.
“The Agreement in Principle with MFI will help to strengthen the secure and stable supply of medicines, securing increased access to state-of-the-art biosimilar medicines and recognising opportunities to add value for the State through a pilot programme for Value-Added Medicines.
“Together, they provide a platform for continued investment and innovation at a pivotal time for Ireland and the pharmaceutical sector. This year, our budget for medicines is increasing by over €200 million with €30 million ringfenced to support access to the latest medicines.
“My sincere thanks to all involved for their collaborative efforts in reaching this agreement.”