Summary Q3 2025
Irish Economy
The Central Bank revised its forecast for domestic economic growth for 2025 from 2% to 2.9%. Earlier in June, it had lowered its estimate for Modified Domestic Demand (MDD), its preferred measure of economic performance, to 2.0% due to investment uncertainty.
Pharmacy Contractor Agreement
A new Irish Community Pharmacy Contractor Agreement was negotiated between the Government and the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU), allocating €75 million to modernise services, enhance training, and reduce administrative burdens. The agreement also expands the clinical role of community pharmacies and advances digital integration through national e-prescription and shared health-record systems.
Strong Public Support to Expand Pharmacy Services
Longer waiting times for GPs are driving more people to seek advice from their local pharmacists. The Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) Pharmacy Index 2025 found that 97% of respondents trust pharmacists’ guidance, 87% find them highly accessible, and 77% are experiencing longer GP wait times than before. These findings highlight the increasing role of community pharmacies as accessible healthcare hubs.
Medicine Shortages
The IPU reported persistent medicine shortages, with 57% of pharmacists noting a significant increase in the past year. Shortages are driven by a combination of rising demand and supply chain issues. The IPU has called for stronger policy responses, improved communication from manufacturers and wholesalers, and greater recognition of pharmacists’ efforts to maintain patient access.
US Tariffs on Pharmaceuticals
As of 1 October, the United States has introduced a 100% tariff on branded pharmaceuticals, creating considerable cost pressures to the sector. These tariffs are expected to increase input costs, heighten inflation risks, and add further uncertainty to pharmaceutical supply chains.
