The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Health and Community Services:

Mr. Speaker, each March Pharmacist Awareness Month celebrates the contributions that pharmacists make to the health care system.

With over 700 licensed pharmacists working in Newfoundland and Labrador, this month recognizes the profession and highlights the services they offer.

From renewing prescriptions, delivering vaccinations, providing medication management services, and assessing and prescribing for minor ailments, there are many reasons to visit your pharmacist.

Convenient, accessible and close to home, pharmacists are there for you when you need them.

This month marks the official launch of the Pharmacists’ Association of Newfoundland and Labrador’s annual Pharmacist of the Year campaign.

The Association is seeking nominations from the public and fellow pharmacists to recognize two individuals who have demonstrated exemplary service as Community Pharmacist of the Year and Hospital Pharmacist of the Year. The winners will be announced at the Association’s Conference Gala in the fall.

I encourage everyone to visit www.panl.net and nominate someone who they feel is deserving of such recognition.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker.