National

MPs Face Off Over Pharmacy Fallout

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – A day after a nationwide shutdown of pharmacies, the battle between the pharmaceutical industry and the government goes to the floor of parliament.

Published

1 year ago

November 2, 2022

Berthony McDermott

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – A day after a nationwide shutdown of pharmacies, the battle between the pharmaceutical industry and the government goes to the floor of parliament.

The minister of health and wellness refuting accusations there was no consultation with the Pharmacy Association.

Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Michael Darville telling parliamentarians today, the government-mandated pharmacies reopen before a meeting is held between both sides.

The health minister was speaking on a point of order during East Grand Bahama Member of Parliament Kwasi Thompson’s contribution to the debate to increase the minimum wage.

Thompson says the Davis administration must stop the arrogance and listen to the people they seek to serve.

The prime minister announced changes to price control items, including the reduction of the profit margin on price control drugs

Though the changes took effect on October 17, the government delayed the enforcement and both the pharmacy and Retail Grocers Association sent proposals but received no response.

The Bahamas Pharmaceutical Association also says there was no consultation.

Dr. Darville is saying otherwise.

Free National Movement Leader Michael Pintard also weighing in, charging government met with retailers because they were pressured.

Meanwhile, the back and forth got heated as members of the Opposition requested Dr. Darville produce the minutes of the meeting.

However, an October 14 post to the ministry’s Facebook page, captioned “Pharmacy leaders meet on new price control amendments,” outlines the consultative meeting between the Bahamas Pharmacy Council, Bahamas Pharmacy Association and the Minister of Health and Wellness Dr. Michael Darville.