A GROUP of Donegal pharmacists met today with Oireachtas members to discuss the Covid-19 vaccinations programme.
The meeting was on foot of a letter signed by 67 Donegal based pharmacists on behalf of themselves and their staff teams.
Rory O’Donnell, James Cassidy and Tom Murray from the Pharmacy Contractors Committee IPU met with Deputies Pearse Doherty, Padraig MacLochlainn, Thomas Pringle and Senator Eileen Flynn.
A representative of Minister Charlie McConalogue was in attendance while Deputy Joe McHugh previously engaged with the pharmacists’ representatives during the week.
“The meeting was a positive engagement which focused on the ability and willingness of pharmacists to engage in the vaccination programme in relation to Covid-19,” the pharmacists group said in a statement.
“This is based on responding to the public health emergency and the vast experience of administering seasonal flu vaccines in a professional, patient lead convenient and above all safe environment to all age groups – particularly in the last 12 months during the challenging times caused by the pandemic.”
“The main points focused on were: the willingness of pharmacists to partake in vaccine rollout
“he need for the full pharmacy team to be vaccinated prior to roll out to enable a safe environment in which to provide vaccination services.
“Timely roll out of vaccine to population through pharmacy network.
“Support for future health intiatives in which pharmacists would take part
“Frustration at the lack of support for pharmacy services since the onset of the pandemic.”
The elected representatives present were all briefed on the issues beforehand and an honest and enlightened discussion took place in relation to all issues surrounding roll out of vaccines in a rural county and to patients with challenging needs.
It is understood a further representation may be made by those present to the Minister for Health and the Department..
It was agreed that further engagement between donegal pharmacists and elected representatives would be welcome.
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