Clarke calls on Government to reconsider pharmacy charges for blister packs

Sinn Féin TD for Longford-Westmeath, Sorca Clarke has called on the Government to reconsider pharmacy charges for blister packs which will be implemented from January 1 2026.

Clarke slammed the Government’s failure to fund blister packs under the Community Pharmacy Agreement, warning that vulnerable patients will be hit with additional charges of up to €50 per month for blister packs to help manage their medicines.

She said the cruel decision will hit vulnerable and older people, those with disabilities and patients on complex medication regimes hardest; and risks avoidable medication errors, illness and hospital admissions.

The Deputy added that this move is particularly unfair in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis when people are already pushed to the pin of their collar with rising prices.

“It is simply wrong that vulnerable patients will no longer receive tablet blister packs free of charge, as they have for decades.

“This cruel move by the government is unfair and must be stopped.

“Blister packs are not a luxury or an optional extra. They are a basic safety measure that helps people manage multiple medications correctly.

“For many older people and those living with long-term conditions, blister packs are the difference between taking medicines safely and risking missed doses, double dosing, or dangerous confusion.

“This is a bad decision for the Government to make during a cost-of-living crisis, when every euro is precious to people.

“We’re talking about people living with conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s now facing additional charges of up to €50 per month for these packs.

“The health evidence is clear, good medicines management keeps people well, reduces complications and prevents avoidable hospital admissions. Asking patients to pay for this support is short-sighted and unfair.

“I am calling on the Minister for Health to urgently re-engage with pharmacists and ensure blister packs are funded and provided free of charge for older people and at-risk groups.

“No one should be priced out of safe medication management. The Government must step in and do the right thing," Teachta Clarke said.