Registration with PSI is essential in order to practice as a pharmacist or operate a pharmacy in Ireland.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI) regulates the pharmacy profession in the public interest.

Up to April 2007 the PSI's governing Council was elected solely by members of the society.

The Pharmacy Act 2007 reformed the society so that now 9 members of the council are elected by members of the society and the balance are appointed by the Minister for Health and Children to represent various sections of the public and health community.

At the first meeting of the Council of the new Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland in June 2007, Portumna pharmacist Mr Brendan Hayes was elected president and Lismore pharmacist Dr Bernard Leddy was elected vice president.