Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 8 October 2019
226. Deputy Lisa Chambers asked the Minister for Health the way in which the continuity of medical devices will be affected in a no-deal Brexit; the steps that have been put in place if such a scenario occurs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40667/19]
View answerA no-deal Brexit will present very significant challenges for the supply of goods generally, including medical devices, into Ireland after 31 October. However, significant work has been undertaken by the Department of Health, the HSE, and the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA), together with medical device suppliers, to anticipate - in so far as is possible - potential vulnerabilities, risk assess these and devise contingencies in order to minimise and address any risks to continuity of supply. There are already additional stocks of medical devices built into the Irish supply chain, and we are confident that these stocks are sufficient to withstand initial delays at ports and airports after Brexit, should any such delays occur.
The work of the Department and its agencies on Brexit preparedness will continue in the weeks remaining until 31 October, and for several months thereafter. This will allow for ongoing identification of any Brexit-related supply problems, so that plans can be adjusted to facilitate the use of alternative products and alternative supply routes, if required.
