Foley's pharmacy is a third generation family owned business in the north inner city. The first Mr Foley worked there for forty years; the second Mr Foley for sixty. What sets it apart is the occult knowledge of the third Mr. Foley in relation to skin conditions. Mr. Foley has a consultation room at the back of the shop, lined with jars of ointments and tins of powders. Twice I have come to him with undiagnosed rashes and irritations; he listens patiently and then mixes up a soothing unguent on a marble slab, wielding a spatula with swift and graceful strokes. The potion is then labelled and wrapped in a white paper parcel. His remedies are unfailingly effective, his manner kindly and sympathetic. A consultation costs €35 - cheaper than a GP, and a rare example of a modern day apothecary. read more