Harney refers proposed acquisition by GEHE of Unicare to Competition Authority.

The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mary Harney TD, has to-day, Friday 14 December 2001, asked the Competition Authority to investigate the proposed acquisition by GEHE of the Unicare chain of pharmacies.

GEHE, a large German pharmaceutical company, already operates a number of Irish pharmacies and would become the largest retail chain both nationally and in the Dublin area following this acquisition. GEHE also owns the 2^nd largest pharmaceutical wholesaler in the State - Cahill May Roberts.

The Tánaiste has requested that the Competition Authority report to her by Tuesday 29 January 2002. On receipt of the Authority's report she will consider what further action, if any, is warranted by the exigencies of the common good.

The Tánaiste has made this "reference" to the Authority in exercise of her powers under the Mergers and Takeovers (Control) Acts, 1978 to 1996.