March 2002 issue Pharmacy Today magazine

PROFESSION ANGRY

Not much to smile about & Rangiora pharmacist Graeme Smith (left) and Robert Fleming of Christchurch were just part of the large turnout at the guild roadshow in Christchurch.

 

 

Turnouts were varied but the mood over ownership was dark.

As Pharmacy Guild roadshows end their national tour, the guild and individual members are reporting general acceptance of the yet to be ratified contract and a unified and angry profession prepared to fight the government's ownership changes.

While money was not been requested, the guild says the majority of those present said they were prepared to contribute to the guild's publicity campaign.

The first phase of the guild's "Blue Banner" campaign has been ready for some months but guild chief executive Murray Burns says a launch date has yet to be decided.

While most members appear to oppose the Cabinet decision and follow guild strategy, one pharmacist suggests the profession get more "militant" after years of being largely ignored by government.

David Wakim attended the Auckland meeting and suggested closing pharmacies for a few hours, combined with a public education campaign and maximising the use of charges to send government the message. He says his proposal received little response.

Back to welcome page

Back to news archives