Covid-19 Pandemic

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 May 2020

Wednesday, 20 May 2020

Questions (818)

Carol Nolan

Question:

818. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Health the steps he has taken to address the shortage of PPE in private and public nursing homes in counties Offaly and Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7035/20]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

The global nature of the Covid-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented demand for PPE and certain medical devices. The HSE is working hard to address the health service’s priority needs in the context of constrained supply, long supply chains, and complex delivery and logistics requirements.

PPE stocks are now distributed by the HSE via a central allocation system covering all  healthcare settings, including public and private nursing homes. The HSE is also developing an updated PPE requirements and distribution model, in consultation with stakeholders.

As this is a service matter in relation to the specific areas mentioned by the Deputy I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to her as soon as possible.