There has been some happiness in Uist today with news that the controversial community pharmacy bid was turned down but there are many who also know an appeal may be likely and that the success record of such appeals is high.
The committee’s findings confirm the actual bid was poorly put together and made promises that were broken within weeks if not days but many Uibhisteachs suspect another bash at it is imminent.
Nevertheless, Angus MacNeil and Alasdair Allan have welcomed the decision by the Pharmacy Practices Committee of the health board to reject an application for a Community Pharmacy in Balivanich.
Alasdair Allan commented: “Although this process has exposed weaknesses in the legislation surrounding applications for Community Pharmacies, my submission to the Pharmacy Practices Committee stated my view that there remained sufficient scope for this application to be rejected.
“I am pleased that the committee have agreed, and that the representations made so widely, and forcefully, by the community have been accepted. Credit should also be given to NHS Western Isles for the thorough manner in which it conducted the public consultation.”
He said health minister Alex Neil wants the regulations amended as soon as is practically possible to take account of circumstances such as were faced in Uist.
Angus MacNeil said: “I am glad that the committee have agreed to reject this application and that everyone’s pressure and lobbying has paid off. This is the right decision but we have to go to the Scottish Government to ensure that the possibility of this does not arise again and that health concerns are always paramount before business concerns.”
Labour MSP Rhoda Grant was pleased that sustainability of the pharmacy was one the reasons for rejection which she hoped would discourage future speculative applications. Her colleague David Stewart it was a victory for community campaigners who had shown that common sense and determination can win the day.
