Finian McGrath
Question:180. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health if he will support Biobank Trust Ireland in 2015-2016 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38603/15]
View answerWednesday, 4 November 2015
Questions (180)
Written answers
I acknowledge the benefits that would accrue from a national biobanking infrastructure. In 2012 the Health Research Group adopted a National Plan for Biobanking. The plan was developed by a sub-committee of the Group chaired by the Health Research Board (HRB) and included the enterprise agencies. An action "to take steps to establish a national biobanking system and support infrastructure by 2016" was subsequently included in the Action Plan for Jobs.
The Health Research Board, which is funded by my Department, has led work on the biobanking initiative with the relevant agencies and is progressing the initiative. It would, therefore, be appropriate for Biobank Trust Ireland to engage with the HRB on the matter.