Press Release: Thursday, 18 September 2025
Minister for Health publishes Community Pharmacy Agreement 2025
- €75 million new investment across 2025 and 2026 will ensure that community pharmacists are better equipped to contribute to national health priorities supporting the delivery of safe, equitable, and efficient healthcare
The Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill T.D. has today published the Community Pharmacy Agreement 2025, following the successful conclusion of negotiations with the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) last week. This landmark agreement supports the delivery of safe, equitable, and efficient healthcare, and ensures that community pharmacists are better equipped to contribute to national health priorities through structured engagement, sustainable funding, and integrated service delivery. The agreement is supported by a €75 million new investment across 2025 and 2026.
Speaking on the publication today, the Minister for Health said:
“Community pharmacies are at the heart of our healthcare system, they are among the most trusted and accessible healthcare professionals. This agreement recognises their vital role and sets out a meaningful pathway to expand services, improve access, and modernise how care is delivered.”
Key features of the Agreement include:
- Expanded Services: Community pharmacies will play a greater role in contraception, immunisation, bowel screening, and the safe return and disposal of unused medicines.
- Digital Integration: Pharmacies will actively support national eHealth reforms, including the National e-Prescription Service and National Electronic Health Record.
- New Funding: €25 million in 2025 and €50 million in 2026 will support fee adjustments, service development, and training.
- Strategic Collaboration: A new collaborative framework will be established to support the shaping and implementation of community pharmacy services.
The Agreement also introduces new fees and allowances for participating pharmacies, supports the training and development of pharmacy teams, and a programme of work aimed at reducing administrative burdens on community pharmacies.
The Minister added:
“This agreement will make it easier for people to access timely care in their communities. It reflects our shared commitment to innovation, public health, and sustainable investment. It will further support community pharmacies in diversifying their health service offerings, business models and revenue streams.”
The Agreement is available on the Department of Health’s website here.