Pharmacists say they've been ignored and discriminated against over fees.
They were cut drastically in 2009 due to the financial emergency at the time.
The Pharmacy Union says many businesses are at tipping point due to a significant underinvestment, with no fee increases for 15 years.
Kathy Maher from the IPU's Contractors Committee says shop closures and reduced opening hours are likely unless fees are restored by the Heatlh Minister, Stephen Donnelly;
"We've made it very clear that we're ready, willing and able to engage to negotiate and consult with them. We're at a crossroads and community pharmacists patience is running out. He can choose to engage with us and engage with the professional in a meaningful way, treating Irish pharmacists with same fairness and equity that other healthcare professions and other sectors have received. Or he can choose to look the other way showing complete disregard for pharmacy and subsequently for the Irish Public."
