Accra, June 12, GNA - The Ministry of Health on Thursday warned that it would take action against pharmacies and chemical sellers using unauthorised licences to operate. "The issue of unauthorized licences is a serious matter, which would attract serious sanctions," the Ministry of Health said in a statement signed by Mr E.N. Longi, Deputy Director Administration.

The Ministry said it was aware of the existence of unauthorized Pharmacy and Licensed Chemical Sellers Licences in the country and the negative consequences on public health.

"Any Pharmacy owner or Licensed Chemical seller in possession of licences the sources of which they have reason to doubt or which they obtained illegally should approach the Pharmacy Council Head Office in Accra for regularization.

"Failure to do so within three months may lead to necessary regulatory action being taken against holders of such licences." The statement said, in order to halt the proliferation of such unauthorized licences additional control measures had been put in place to examine the problems related to acquisition of genuine licences in order that appropriate recommendations for prompt remedial action could be taken.

It said application forms for all licences issued by the Pharmacy Council were available free of charge at any of its regional offices. It urged any prospective applicant to deal directly with the Regional Offices of the Council and also ensure that all transactions were appropriately receipted.

The statement said applicants who met the Council's criteria would be issued with a licence.

It appealed to the general public not to hesitate to report to the Registrar or any of its regional offices any complaints or concerns regarding the issuance of licences for prompt redress.