On World Pharmacists Day 2026, the Pharmaceutical Society NI has recognised the vital contribution pharmacists make to patients and communities across Northern Ireland, and highlighted its work to support and empower the profession for the future.
This year’s theme, “Empowering pharmacists for healthier futures”, reflects the Society’s recent work to provide clear standards, guidance and regulation that helps pharmacists do their best work in the service of patients.
Recent developments include:
- the launch of a revised Code of Conduct, Ethics and Performance;
- new Professional Standards for Chief Pharmacists;
- updated Initial Education and Training arrangements developed with the Department of Health;
- a new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy; and
- the Corporate Strategy 2025-2030.
Dr Geraldine O’Hare, President of the Council of the Pharmaceutical Society NI, said:
“On World Pharmacists Day, it is a great honour to recognise and thank all pharmacists across Northern Ireland for the essential role they play in supporting patients, improving medicines safety and contributing to better health outcomes.
“This year’s theme speaks directly to the role of good regulation – setting clear, meaningful and proportionate standards that protect the public and support pharmacists to practise confidently, ethically and in the best interests of patients.”
Mr Canice Ward, Chief Executive of the Pharmaceutical Society NI, said:
“Pharmacy is changing rapidly, and regulation must keep pace with that change. Right-touch regulation means being clear about the standards the public should expect, while avoiding unnecessary barriers that prevent pharmacists from doing their best work.
“By providing clear standards, accessible guidance and a strategic focus on fairness, inclusion and continuous improvement, we are helping pharmacists practise safely, lead confidently and contribute fully to healthier futures for people across Northern Ireland.”