Vol. 514 No. 3
228 Ms Clune asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans, if any, he has to increase payment to general practitioners for the implementation of the vaccine to protect against group C meningococcal disease; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4335/00]
It is anticipated that a new conjugate vaccine to protect against group C meningococcal disease should be licensed and available for use in Ireland in the summer of this year. The vaccine will be incorporated into the primary childhood immunisation programme and will also be given to older children and young people in a catch-up programme.
It is expected that general practitioners will have a significant role in the delivery of this vaccine, particularly to infants and pre-school children. The Health Service Employers Agency has been asked to convene discussions with general practitioners' representatives about their involvement in these arrangements.
