Pharma companies ‘will work 24/7’ in lockdown

Medicines for Ireland is committed to maintaining drug supplies during new lockdowns

Medicines for Ireland (MFI) has been quick to announce that its members will work around the clock to ensure that drug supplies are not affected by the new lockdown measures.

MFI members include many of the leading providers of pharmaceuticals for the Health Service Executive (HSE).

Prior to An Taoiseach Micheál Martin's announcement last night that the country would move to Level 5 restrictions tomorrow (October 21) at midnight, MFI Chairman David Delaney said member firms would be “in 24/7 Partnership with government departments and agencies to ensure the stable flow of medicines in Ireland ”.

According to the new measures, only retail spaces that are considered essential, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, will remain open.

With the prospect of a six-week lockdown looming on the advice of the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) to the Cabinet last night, Delaney added, “We thought Medicines for Ireland would find it useful to send a reassuring message to the embassy communicate to the public that these changes will not have a negative impact on drug supplies across Ireland. "

Delaney also said he wanted to remind pharmacy users to "stay in very close contact with their community pharmacist at this point".

"These professionals have been open throughout the pandemic and will continue to be open and provide you with the best possible care," he said.