Uruguayan law prohibits collections outside authorized pharmacies, but the FA organizes campaigns with PIT-CNT and direct shipments to the island. MSP authorization or double rod?
The Broad Front is promoting a new round of collection of medicines and medical supplies bound for Cuba. Together with the PIT-CNT and organizations in solidarity with the Revolution, collection points are being set up in Montevideo —including the union headquarters of Juan D. Jackson 1283— and donations of current drugs, sutures, nursing materials and even cash contributions via BROU are called for. Brigades such as the “Fidel Castro” have already left with hundreds of kilos on their way to Havana hospitals.
The move is public and is promoted in networks and press releases: humanitarian aid against the blockade, they say. But it clashes head-on with a rule that doesn't leave much room: Decree-Law 15,703 of 1985,
the Pharmacy Act.Article 1 gives the Ministry of Public Health exclusive competence to regulate the distribution, commercialization and dispensing of drugs. Article 5 is categorical: “The distribution, commercialization and dispensing of drugs, cosmetics and therapeutic devices may only be carried out through the establishments provided for in this law”. Point.
There are no exceptions for unions, political parties or “solidarity” campaigns. The idea is clear: avoid health risks, ensure traceability, expiration dates and adequate conservation. Any collection or transfer outside the official circuit - pharmacies, drugstores, authorized distributors
