Investment inpharmacieswelcomed

Making the announcement in the Assembly Mr Poots said: “This £8m investment will bring the total to be provided to pharmacy contractors in 2011-12 to £91.5 million – some 10% more than the £83.5million provided to date. It includes an additional £4million in recognition of the concerns raised in respect of the vulnerability of pharmacies located in rural and socially deprived areas. I have always been mindful of the Committee and other MLAs’ specific concerns around seeking to preserve services in isolated communities.”

The Minister has asked the Health and Social Care Board to release these funds as soon as possible

Welcoming the news, Mr Ewart said: “This will support new services, improve premises and help staffing in the most vulnerable pharmacies in rural communities. Pharmacies are a vital part of communities and any help to keep them open is to be welcomed.”