At the 2025 PGEU Annual Conference, themed “Building a Resilient Pharmacy Workforce for the Future”, Ireland’s Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, TD, acknowledged the essential role of community pharmacists as constructive and reliable partners within the healthcare system.

Speaking to an audience of European pharmacy leaders, representatives of national pharmacists’ organisations, chambers, and pharmacy associations, Minister Carroll MacNeill expressed her gratitude for the tireless efforts of pharmacists and their valued partnership in delivering healthcare. She stated: “The future of Community Pharmacy is bright, with real and meaningful opportunities for both our health service and pharmacies on many fronts. Governments, particularly the Irish Government, remain committed to supporting community pharmacy services through investment, reform and modernisation.” The Minister also emphasised her commitment to working collaboratively with pharmacists to unlock new opportunities for the sector: “The report of the Expert Taskforce for Expansion of the Role of Pharmacy in Ireland, sets a clear policy direction for future pharmacy care in Ireland and in collaboration with stakeholders we want a future where Ireland leads the way at a European Level in services available in Community Pharmacy. I am keen to work with pharmacists to develop new revenue streams for pharmacies, creating a community pharmacy model that brings care closer to patients.”

Addressing the ongoing workforce challenges facing the sector, PGEU President, Clare Fitzell said “We need to strengthen existing services, broaden the scope of pharmacy practice, and implement effective policy measures to ensure a sustainable workforce capable of meeting growing healthcare demands. This includes efforts to increase the number of pharmacy graduates and to enhance recruitment and retention strategies.”

Read the official document below.