More than 3,000 international delegates are expected in Dublin this weekend for the World Pharmaceutical Congress. The conference, entitled “Towards a future vision for complex patients: integrated care in a dynamic continuum”, will address developments and the central role of the pharmacist in delivering patient care in an ever-more challenging setting.

The conference is expected to be among the top five largest business events this year, according to Fáilte Ireland, and is part of the Gathering 2013.

It will include a technology showcase featuring innovative Irish and international start-ups with cutting-edge products and technologies designed to improve pharmacy and patient outcomes globally.

"The event presents a huge opportunity for Ireland and will be a real boon to the national economy," said Eoghan Hanly, president of the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland.

He said pharmacy in Ireland had changed considerably since Dublin last hosted the congress in 1975.

It is undergoing its biggest transformation, because of legislative changes to regulate the profession and expand the roles of pharmacists.