Legislation designed to keep better tabs on the pharmaceutical sector was today backed by the Senate.

The Pharmacy and Poisons Amendment Act 2022 will bolster the Bermuda Pharmacy Council with the appointment of a member qualified in legal and ethical matters.

It will also give the chairman or woman of the council a casting vote in the event of a deadlock on a decision.

Arianna Hodgson, the junior minister for labour, finance and health, said the legislation “seeks to enhance the membership” and processes in the council.

The council carries out checks on the registration of pharmacies and controls the importation of medicines.

Michelle Simmons, the Senate vice-president, said: “I think in view of the circumstances we find ourselves in the midst of, where ethical issues are constantly being wrestled with by pharmacists, it is important for them to have the benefits of someone who is viewed as an expert on the Pharmacy Council.”

The legislation passed with no objections.