The Pharmacy Guild of Australia has acknowledged with sadness news of the death of the Hon Michael Beahan AM, former President of the Senate.
The National President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Professor Trent Twomey, said that as a politician Mr Beahan reflected society’s values and aspirations.
“He fought hard but fairly for his constituents and was unique in his ability to understand the mood of communities across Australia,” Professor Twomey said.
Professor Twomey said when Mr Beahan resigned from politics, he became an integral part of the Pharmacy’s Guild’s team.
“Michael worked for the Guild and was instrumental in helping to arrive at successful Community Pharmacy Agreements,” Professor Twomey said.
“He brought his political skills as well as his negotiating expertise to the table to help improve outcomes for community pharmacists and their patients.
“He saw that providing more services through pharmacies was a win-win situation and he advocated strongly for these services to be included in Community Pharmacy Agreements.
“And while his advocacy was strong, those who negotiated with him remember a person who was always respectful no matter how robust the negotiations became.”
Professor Twomey said anyone who went into a community pharmacy nowadays benefitted from Mr Beahan’s work.
“Many of the services and structures found in community pharmacies today are direct results of Michael’s input and negotiating skills,” Professor Twomey said.
“On behalf of all Guild members I extend my condolences to Michael’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
