New £8.8million Plenum Pharmaceuticals building opened

A brand new £8.8million facility specialising in the preparation of medicines which are not available commercially was opened today by Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey.

The Plenum Pharmaceuticals unit brings together work that had previously been distributed across three sites. Built on the Royal Victoria Hospitals site, the facility prepares and quality assures the production of medicines which are essential to patients, many of whom are very seriously ill.

Speaking at the opening Minister McGimpsey said: "Patients naturally expect quality and safety across all aspects of health and social care including the preparation of vital and life-saving medicines.

"That is why quality and safety are key elements of the design and fabric of this facility which is a superb example of modern building design and construction integrated with advanced technology.

“Everyone who works in this impressive new unit will be able to take advantage of the new opportunities its modern design and technology provides. While you may not have direct contact with patients, it is important to recognise the real difference your work makes to people’s lives."

Dr Norman Morrow, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer said: "This is an important investment, not only in financial terms but in providing facilities of the standard and quality required of a modern pharmaceutical service and particularly the preparation of medicines for individual patient needs."

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