Skip to main content
Normal View

Tuesday, 10 Nov 2020

Written Answers Nos. 659-684

Vaccination Programme

Questions (659)

Michael McNamara

Question:

659. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Health if there is a national shortage of the flu vaccination for adults in general practitioner practices; if there is an issue on reordering the vaccination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34563/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Government has expanded the provision of seasonal influenza vaccination without charge to all of those in the HSE-defined at-risk groups and to all children aged from 2 to 12 years. Vaccines are being administered via GPs and pharmacists, as in previous years.

This season, 1.95 million doses of influenza vaccine have been purchased, which is double the amount administered last season. The HSE has procured 1.35 million doses of the Quadrivalent Influenza Vaccine (QIV) for the forthcoming winter. This vaccine is being made available to all persons in an at-risk group and aged from 6 months up. In addition, the HSE has purchased 600,000 doses of the Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV), which is delivered via nasal drops rather than by injection and is being made available to all children aged from 2 to 12 years old inclusive.

This expanded programme will ensure that those most vulnerable to the effects of influenza will have access without charges. This is in line with the advice of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee and represents a significant step forward in providing vaccination without charges.

International markets for influenza vaccine are extremely tight this year, and in Ireland this resulted in deliveries from the manufacturer taking longer than intended. However, the full quantity of vaccine ordered has now been received. By 11 November, when the fourth round of deliveries will be completed, 1.3 million doses of the injected vaccine have been distributed to GPs, pharmacists, and healthcare settings. The quantities distributed to individual GPs and pharmacists has been based on the orders from the same sources last year, in order to ensure an equitable distribution.

Given the difficult international market for flu vaccines this year, it is unlikely that any further increase in supply will be possible. Demand for vaccination this year is unprecedented. This is the case across Europe and beyond. Given the finite supply available, it is important that even the increased quantities available in Ireland are targeted where they will have the greatest impact.

The new nasal (LAIV) influenza vaccine programme for children is well underway across the country. A high uptake of the vaccine in children has been shown to reduce the spread of influenza in the community. The full quantity of LAIV ordered has also now been received and is being distributed to GPs and pharmacists.

Health Services

Questions (660)

Bríd Smith

Question:

660. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Health the healthcare providers with whom contracts or service level agreements were signed between 2014 and 2016 by the HSE or his Department or health services of any form in which funding came from the State by year and company in tabular form. [34580/20]

View answer

Written answers

As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the deputy directly, as soon as possible.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (661)

Neale Richmond

Question:

661. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Health the engagement that has been had with regard to the rescEU stockpile scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34585/20]

View answer

Written answers

As part of its response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the European Commission has developed the rescEU medical stockpile and distribution scheme under the umbrella of the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM). The stockpile is currently hosted across six Member States: Denmark, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Romania and Sweden.

To date, Ireland has not submitted any request for assistance under the rescEU mechanism, which is primarily intended as a last line of defence for countries with urgent, short-term supply issues. However, Ireland will continue to monitor requests for assistance made under the UCPM, and will consider donations of medical equipment to other countries where this is feasible.

Brexit Issues

Questions (662)

Neale Richmond

Question:

662. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Health the estimated impact Brexit will have on the provision of medicines here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34586/20]

View answer

Written answers

As part of the whole of government response to Brexit, the Department of Health has established dedicated structures to manage the approach to preparing for the end of the Brexit transition period. In line with the Government decision of May 2020, this readiness work has been intensified on the basis of two scenarios: (i) a limited Free Trade Agreement (FTA), or, (ii) a hard Brexit with the EU and UK trading on World Trade Organisation (WTO) terms.

The Department, the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) and the Health Service Executive (HSE), together with the full support of stakeholders in the medicine supply chain, are implementing a comprehensive and coordinated set of preparations to ensure continuity of health services and continued supply of medicines in the event of a no deal, hard Brexit.

Section 2.5 of the Government’s Brexit Readiness Action Plan, published in September 2020, outlines work which has been undertaken in relation to the supply of medicines and medical devices.

www.dfa.ie/media/dfa/eu/brexit/keydocuments/Brexit-Readiness-Action-Plan.pdf.The Department, the HSE, and the HPRA have facilitated ongoing engagements with manufacturers and suppliers of medicines, to ensure that they are ready for the end of the transition period, to discuss any potential issues that could affect supply to Ireland, including the impact that Covid-19 has had on supply chains, and to identify solutions to maintain supply to the Irish market.

Ireland is unlikely to face general medicine shortages in the period immediately after the end of the transition period. Any emerging supply issues, due to disruption at ports for example, will, in the first instance, be dealt with from existing supplies held within the domestic supply chain. There are already additional stocks of medicines routinely built into the Irish medicine supply chain, which is different to medicine wholesaling models elsewhere.

Through collaborative engagement with medicines manufacturers and wholesalers, they have assured us that they are confident that they will have sufficient stocks to bridge any initial issues at ports, should they occur.

Therefore, there is no need for pharmacists or patients to order extra quantities of medicines, or for doctors to issue additional prescriptions, as doing so could disrupt existing stock levels and hamper the supply of medicines for other patients. Patients should continue to fill their prescriptions and take their medications as they normally would. Significant work has been undertaken to mitigate potential vulnerabilities and risks and to provide a high level of assurance around continuity of care and treatment for patients in Ireland. Work on this will continue, including ongoing monitoring of supplies in Ireland and engagement with industry to adapt supply chains, where necessary, to minimise any potential disruption, up to the end of the transition period and in the weeks and months beyond.

However, medicines shortages inevitably arise from time to time and are a feature of modern health systems around the world. The potential future shortage of any specific medicine will be managed through the existing multi-stakeholder, national Medicine Shortages Framework to prevent the shortage from occurring where possible or, where it does occur, to manage the impact in terms of identifying alternative treatments. The health system is therefore well placed to anticipate and respond to any additional shortages, should they arise because of Brexit. Importantly though, any shortages currently affecting the Irish market are not directly attributable to Brexit.

If a patient has any concerns about their medicine, they are encouraged to speak with their pharmacist or GP.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Questions (663)

Seán Sherlock

Question:

663. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Health if he has conducted research on whether carbon emissions related to the healthcare sector will be measured and presented annually. [34601/20]

View answer

Written answers

I have asked the HSE to respond to the deputy directly.

Health Services

Questions (664)

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Question:

664. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Health if businesses providing elective aesthetic treatments under certain circumstances (details supplied) fall under essential services with respect of the level 5 Covid-19 restrictions. [34602/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Government's medium-term strategy Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021: Plan for Living with COVID-19, sets out Ireland's approach to managing and living with COVID-19 in a range of areas over the next 6 - 9 months.

The Plan sets out five levels of response, each with a number of measures designed to help us all lower COVID-19 transmission and setting out what is permitted at that moment in time. It aims to allow society and businesses to be able to operate as normally as possible, while continuing to suppress the virus. Each level outlines what is permitted for social or family gatherings, work and public transport, bars, hotels and restaurants, exercise activities and religious services.

The Plan reflects a careful consideration of the impact of the introduction of restrictions on employment and livelihoods, keeping as many businesses open as possible at different stages, while acknowledging that some businesses and services are critical.

The Health Act 1947 (Section 31A-Temporary Restrictions) (COVID-19) (No.8) Regulations 2020, which give effect to the level 5 restrictions under the Plan, provide the list of essential retail and essential services which may operate under level 5 restrictions.

The list of essential services that can remain open during Level 5 includes therapy services provided by a member of a designated profession within the meaning of section 3 of the Health and Social Care Professionals Act 2005 (No. 27 of 2005). There are seventeen professions designated under the 2005 Act, which are encompassed in the list of essential services. These are: Dietitians, Dispensing Opticians, Medical Scientists, Occupational Therapists, Optometrists, Physiotherapists (which includes Physical Therapists), Radiographers, Radiation Therapists, Social Workers, Speech and Language Therapists, Clinical Biochemists, Counsellors, Orthoptists, Podiatrists, Psychologists, Psychotherapists and Social Care Workers.

Information on the public health measures in currently in place in relation to the different levels, including essential retail and essential services, can be found at www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/resilience-recovery-2020-2021-plan-for-living-with-covid-19/.

Current regulations and other Statutory Instruments related to the Covid-19 pandemic are available here: www.gov.ie/en/collection/1f150-view-statutory-instruments-related-to-the-covid-19-pandemic/.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (665)

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Question:

665. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Health the meaning of specialist medical practice activities under human health and social work activities in the list of essential services for level 5 Covid-19 restrictions. [34616/20]

View answer

Written answers

Specialist medical practice activities under human health and social work activities in the list of essential services for level 5 Covid-19 restrictions refers to a range of medical consultant services. The term specialist medical practice activities is defined in the NACE Coder classification system, which is a pan-European classification system that groups organisations according to their business activities.

Under this classification system, the following specialist medical practice activities are outlined:

Clinics private consultant activities , Dermatologist (so described) private practice , District community physician , Ear nose and throat specialist (private practice) , Eye specialist (private practice) , Family planning centres without accommodation , General medical consultant (private practice) , Genito urinary specialist (private practice) , Infectious disease specialist (private practice) , Medical consultant (private practice) , Medical consultation and treatment (specialist) , Mental health specialist (private practice) , Morbid anatomy specialist (private practice) , Physician private practice , Physiologist , Private consultants clinics , Psychiatrist (private practice) , Social medicine specialist (private practice) , Specialist medical consultant (private practice) , Specialist medical consultation and treatment , Specialist physician and surgeon (private practice) , Surgeon (private practice) , Urologist (private practice) , Gynaecologist (private practice) , Specialist (not employed full time by a hospital).

The following link shows this list of specialist medical practice activities on the Central Statistics Office website.

https://statbank.cso.ie/px/u/NACECoder/NaceItems/8622.asp.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (666)

Seán Canney

Question:

666. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Health if he will review the current level 5 restrictions in relation to public religious worship as the inability to attend religious worship is a cause of distress to many persons across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34623/20]

View answer

Written answers

As you are aware, the Government has published it's medium-term strategy Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021: Plan for Living with COVID-19, which sets out Ireland's approach to managing and living with COVID-19 in a range of areas over the next 6 - 9 months.

This Plan sets out five levels of response, each with a number of measures designed to help us all lower COVID-19 transmission and setting out what is permitted at that moment in time. It aims to allow society and businesses to be able to operate as normally as possible, while continuing to suppress the virus. The Plan is framed to account for periods during which there is a low incidence of the disease, with isolated clusters and low community transmission, through to situations where there is a high or rapidly increasing incidence, widespread community transmission and the pandemic is escalating rapidly in Ireland and globally. It recognises the need for society and business to be allowed to continue as normally as possible and is designed so that either national or county level restrictions can be applied. Each level outlines what is permitted for social or family gatherings, work and public transport, bars, hotels and restaurants, exercise activities and religious services.

As I am sure you can appreciate, COVID-19 spreads when individuals and groups come into close contact with one another, enabling the virus to move from one person to another. COVID-19 is infectious in a person with no symptoms, or for the period of time before they develop symptoms. For this reason, we are all asked to be extra careful when socialising and working with others. For now, we must act like we have the virus to protect those around us from infection.

The number of people allowed to gather in different scenarios in the Government Plan are based on a review of international practice and the judgment of public health experts. It seeks to balance the risks of different types of gatherings against the desire to allow normal activities to proceed in so far as possible.

It’s always safer to meet less people, less often, for less time. If we do this, we have a better chance of keeping to the lower Levels in the Framework, and continuing to keep businesses, schools, and healthcare services open, while also protecting the most vulnerable.

Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021: Plan for Living with COVID-19, provides for restrictions on gatherings of people indoors given the higher risk associated with these types of activities and sets out when it is considered that religious services can take place with protective measures (Levels 1 and 2) and when they must move online (Levels 3,4 and 5). Weddings and funerals are exceptions and can continue at every level with limited numbers.

Churches and other places of worship can remain open for private prayer. It is also important to note that at all levels, Ministers of Religion are permitted to travel to perform a service on-line, to minister to the sick, and conduct a funeral or wedding ceremony. The relevant regulations relating to Level 5 restrictions are S.I. 448 of 2020 (Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (COVID-19) (NO. 8) Regulations 2020).

Throughout the pandemic, the Government has sought to implement these measures on the basis of guidance as opposed to regulations wherever possible. It could be noted that holding a religious gathering is not a penal offence.

I and my Cabinet colleagues recognise the immense sacrifices that are being made be people across the country at this difficult time. I know that that includes many people who are affected by their inability to attend church in the way they have been used to. However, there has been significant engagement and solidarity from the Catholic Church and other Faiths at all stages throughout this pandemic to ensure the protection of individuals and communities from COVID-19. I know that the Taoiseach recently met with the leaders of the Catholic Church to consider the range of issues relating this matter.

You may wish to note that comprehensive guidelines are in place to ensure that religious services can take place safely when they recommence, and further information is available here: https://www.hpsc.ie/a-z/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/guidance/religioussettingsguidance/COVID_religious%20settings.pdf

Health Services

Questions (667)

Brendan Griffin

Question:

667. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Health his views on a matter (details supplied) regarding services for dementia patients during Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34625/20]

View answer

Written answers

At the outset, I would like to acknowledge how challenging this year has been for people living with dementia and their families. Budget 2021 provided an additional €12.9 million to improve supports for people with dementia next year. This funding will be used to provide an additional 250,000 home support hours for people living with dementia, will enable the recruitment of an additional 11 Dementia Advisors next year and will enable the expansion of dementia specific community supports in line with the National Dementia Strategy.

Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, the HSE has endeavoured to maintain a focus on the needs of people living with dementia by adapting its community services and supports to provide a flexible response to meet their needs. I understand that a majority of the HSE’s Memory Technology Resource Rooms are now providing an adapted service through telephone and video assessments. Primary care team support is operating nationwide, with referrals being made to community supports, including the dementia adviser service and the local authority community response forums. While home support visits have been necessarily restricted, the HSE uses prioritisation and screening measures to identify clients in need of home visits.

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI) is continuing to support people: its live chat, national helpline, home care, dementia adviser service, and online family carer training remain operational. Alzheimer Cafés have moved on-line and ‘virtual cafés’ are now taking place. The ASI has launched a new nurse line initiative with backing from the HSE and my Department. The free call-back service offers people with dementia and family carers the opportunity to book a 1:1 session with a Dementia Nurse or a Dementia Adviser during the pandemic.

The HSE is committed to reopening day services but needs to determine the Covid-19 testing strategy for service users; mindful of increasing Covid-19 community transmission and resolve issues related to physical environments at day centres and ensure a safe transport strategy to facilitate people’s attendance at day centres.

Finally, advice issued from NPHET is that the over-70s, as medically vulnerable people, are advised to continue to exercise personal judgement care and it is recommended that they stay at home as much as possible and to limit engagement to a very small network of people for limited periods of time while remaining physically distanced.

As part of this query relates to an operational matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly as soon as possible.

Vaccination Programme

Questions (668)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

668. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health the reason there is no flu vaccine available in Stranorlar Health Centre, County Donegal; when it will be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34627/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Government has expanded the provision of seasonal influenza vaccination without charge to all of those in the HSE-defined at-risk groups and to all children aged from 2 to 12 years. Vaccines are being administered via GPs and pharmacists, as in previous years.

This season, 1.95 million doses of influenza vaccine have been purchased, double the amount administered last season. The HSE has procured 1.35 million doses of the Quadrivalent Influenza Vaccine (QIV), made available to all persons in an at-risk group and aged from 6 months up. In addition, the HSE has purchased 600,000 doses of the Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV), which is delivered via nasal drops rather than by injection and is being made available to all children aged from 2 to 12 years old inclusive.

This expanded programme will ensure that those most vulnerable to the effects of influenza will have access without charges. This is in line with the advice of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee and represents a significant step forward in providing vaccination without charges.

Deliveries of this vaccine from the manufacturer have not been as quick as we would have liked due to the very challenging international market for flu vaccines. However, the full quantity of vaccine ordered has now been received. Vaccines are distributed in two-week cycles. More than 950,000 doses of the injected vaccine have already been distributed to GPs, pharmacists, and healthcare settings. This is 10% more than the amount distributed at the same time in 2019 and is equal to almost the full amount administered in the 2019/20 season. The quantities distributed to GPs and pharmacists have been based on the orders from the same sources last year, in order to ensure an equitable distribution. The remaining 400,000 doses are being distributed for use.

Given the difficult international market for flu vaccines this year, it is unlikely that any further increase in supply will be possible. Demand for vaccination this year is unprecedented. This is the case across Europe and beyond. Given the finite supply available, it is important that even the increased quantities available in Ireland are targeted where they will have the greatest impact.

The new nasal (LAIV) influenza vaccine programme for children is well underway across the country. A high uptake of the vaccine in children has been shown to reduce the spread of influenza, helping to protect others in the community. The full quantity of LAIV ordered has also now been received and is being distributed to GPs and pharmacists.

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (669)

Neasa Hourigan

Question:

669. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Health if holistic therapy is considered an essential therapy in relation to level 5 Covid-19 restrictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34638/20]

View answer

Written answers

As the Deputy is aware, Ireland is currently at Level 5 of Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021 - the Plan for Living with COVID-19. At Level 5, only essential retail outlets and essential services are allowed to open to the public.

The list of essential services that can remain open during Level 5 includes therapy services provided by a member of a designated profession within the meaning of section 3 of the Health and Social Care Professionals Act 2005 (No. 27 of 2005). There are seventeen professions designated under the 2005 Act, which are encompassed in the list of essential services. These are: Dietitians, Dispensing Opticians, Medical Scientists, Occupational Therapists, Optometrists, Physiotherapists (which includes Physical Therapists), Radiographers, Radiation Therapists, Social Workers, Speech and Language Therapists, Clinical Biochemists, Counsellors, Orthoptists, Podiatrists, Psychologists, Psychotherapists and Social Care Workers.

Nursing Staff

Questions (670)

Michael McNamara

Question:

670. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Health the reason the payment of salaries to student nurses as healthcare assistants has ceased; his plans for the reinstatement of the payment for student nurses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34642/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Healthcare Assistance initiative, whereby student nurses and midwives were offered temporary contracts, was in response to the Covid-19 outbreak and ceased in August 2020. This initiative was only ever intended as a temporary measure to provide additional support of to the national effort. It also offered some protection to the ongoing education of student nurses and midwives as their clinical placements had ceased.

Clinical placements for Student Nurses have resumed. There are no plans at present to reinstate this initiative.

Primary Medical Certificates

Questions (671)

Seán Sherlock

Question:

671. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Health the number of applications for primary medical certificates in 2019 and to date in 2020; the number approved; and the number denied by county, in tabular form. [34644/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Minister for Finance has responsibility for the Disabled Drivers and Passengers (Tax Concessions) Scheme, which is operated by the Revenue Commissioners. To qualify for the Scheme, an applicant must be in possession of a Primary Medical Certificate.

The extent of the involvement of Health Service Executive (HSE) personnel in the Scheme relates to making a professional clinical determination as to whether an individual applicant meets the specified medical criteria. This determination is undertaken by Senior Medical Officers for the relevant HSE Community Health Organisation, on behalf of the Department of Finance and the Revenue Commissioners.

As the Deputy's question relates to a service matter, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the HSE for direct reply to the Deputy.

Hospital Appointments Status

Questions (672)

Maurice Quinlivan

Question:

672. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Minister for Health the reason a person (details supplied) has been for an appointment with a consultant at University Hospital Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34645/20]

View answer

Written answers

As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.

Hospital Appointments Status

Questions (673)

Michael Healy-Rae

Question:

673. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if an operation will be expedited for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34646/20]

View answer

Written answers

It is recognised that waiting times for scheduled appointments and procedures have been impacted as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic the HSE had to take measures to defer most scheduled care activity in March, April, and May of this year. This was to ensure patient safety and that all appropriate resources were made available for Covid-19 related activity and time-critical essential work. This decision was in line with the advice issued by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) in accordance with the advice of the World Health Organisation.

Patient safety remains at the centre of all hospital activity and elective care scheduling. To ensure services are provided in a safe, clinically-aligned and prioritised way, hospitals are following HSE clinical guidelines and protocols.

The HSE continues to optimise productivity through alternative work practices such the use of alternative settings including private hospitals, community facilities and alternative outpatient settings.

Under the Health Act 2004, the Health Service Executive (HSE) is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. Section 6 of the HSE Governance Act 2013 bars the Minister for Health from directing the HSE to provide a treatment or a personal service to any individual or to confer eligibility on any individual.

The National Waiting List Management Policy is a standardised approach used by the HSE to manage scheduled care treatment for in-patient, day case and planned procedures. It sets out the processes that hospitals are to implement to manage waiting lists and was developed in 2014 to ensure that all administrative, managerial and clinical staff follow an agreed national minimum standard for the management and administration of waiting lists for scheduled care.

In relation to the particular query raised, as this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.

Medicinal Products

Questions (674, 675, 676)

Marc MacSharry

Question:

674. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Health the reason access to the compassionate use programme for the new spinal muscular atrophy drug, risdiplam or Evrysdi, is not currently available to adults; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34663/20]

View answer

Marc MacSharry

Question:

675. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Health if he will intervene in the granting of access to the compassionate use programme for the new spinal muscular atrophy drug, risdiplam or Evrysdi, by hospitals to adults; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34664/20]

View answer

Marc MacSharry

Question:

676. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Health if there is a specific reason adults cannot currently avail of the new spinal muscular atrophy drug, risdiplam or Evrysdi, under the compassionate use programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34665/20]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 674 to 676, inclusive, together.

The HSE has statutory responsibility for medicine pricing and reimbursement decisions, in accordance with the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act 2013. The Act specifies the criteria for decisions on the reimbursement of medicines. As Minister for Health, I do not have any statutory power in relation to the reimbursement of medicines.

In addition, Section 6 of the HSE Governance Act 2013 precludes me from directing the HSE to provide a treatment or a personal service to any individual or to confer eligibility on any individual.

In line with the 2013 Act, if a company would like a medicine to be reimbursed by the HSE pursuant to the community drugs schemes, the company must first submit an application to the HSE to have the new medicine added to the reimbursement list.

Reimbursement is for licensed indications which have been granted market authorisation by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA).

On 26 February 2019, the European Commission granted orphan designation (EU/3/19/2145)to Roche Registration GmBH for Risdiplam for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

The application for marketing authorisation (MA) for Risdiplam is being reviewed under the EMA’s accelerated assessment programme since September 2020 and this process is ongoing.

Under European and Irish legislation, medicinal products (medicines) must be authorised before being marketed. In Ireland, there are two exemptions from authorisation that are relevant to patients for the treatment of conditions where there are medical needs that cannot be met by authorised medicines. These are:

- Supply through participation in an approved clinical trial; or

- In accordance with the specifications of a practitioner for use by his individual patients on his direct personal responsibility, in order to fulfill the special needs of those patients.

In Ireland, compassionate access schemes are entirely at the discretion of the manufacturer. There is no provision in Irish legislation for the approval of compassionate use programmes for specific groups of patients with an unmet medical need. The Minister for Health has no role or powers in this regard.

Blood Donations

Questions (677)

Alan Kelly

Question:

677. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health if he will facilitate an increase in the number of blood collections in west County Waterford (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34669/20]

View answer

Written answers

As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.

Vaccination Programme

Questions (678)

Alan Kelly

Question:

678. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the reason for the lack of supply of the flu jab in local pharmacies; the reason it is difficult to access same; the reason for the long delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34670/20]

View answer

Written answers

The Government has expanded the provision of seasonal influenza vaccination without charge to all of those in the HSE-defined at-risk groups and to all children aged from 2 to 12 years. Vaccines are being administered via GPs and pharmacists, as in previous years.

This season, 1.95 million doses of influenza vaccine have been purchased, double the amount administered last season. The HSE has procured 1.35 million doses of the Quadrivalent Influenza Vaccine (QIV), made available to all persons in an at-risk group and aged from 6 months up. In addition, the HSE has purchased 600,000 doses of the Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV), which is delivered via nasal drops rather than by injection and is being made available to all children aged from 2 to 12 years old inclusive.

This expanded programme will ensure that those most vulnerable to the effects of influenza will have access without charges. This is in line with the advice of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee and represents a significant step forward in providing vaccination without charges.

Deliveries of this vaccine from the manufacturer have not been as quick as we would have liked due to the very challenging international market for flu vaccines. However, the full quantity of vaccine ordered has now been received. Vaccines are distributed in two-week cycles. 950,000 doses of the injected vaccine have already been distributed to GPs, pharmacists, and healthcare settings. This is 10% more than the amount distributed at the same time in 2019 and is equal to almost the full amount administered in the 2019/20 season. The quantities distributed to GPs and pharmacists have been based on the orders from the same sources last year, in order to ensure an equitable distribution. The remaining 400,000 doses are being distributed for use.

Given the difficult international market for flu vaccines this year, it is unlikely that any further increase in supply will be possible. Demand for vaccination this year is unprecedented. This is the case across Europe and beyond. Given the finite supply available, it is important that even the increased quantities available in Ireland are targeted where they will have the greatest impact.

The new nasal (LAIV) influenza vaccine programme for children is well underway across the country. A high uptake of the vaccine in children has been shown to reduce the spread of influenza, helping to protect others in the community. The full quantity of LAIV ordered has also now been received and is being distributed to GPs and pharmacists.

Counselling Services

Questions (679)

Alan Kelly

Question:

679. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health the status of teenage counselling services cancelled from March to August 2020 due to the restrictions in place and the impact on young persons who were waiting on counselling during that period; his plans to make sure this does not happen again; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34674/20]

View answer

Written answers

As this is a service matter I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Disability Services Funding

Questions (680)

Alan Kelly

Question:

680. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Health his plans to act on the 12 month notice of termination of contract served on the HSE by a service (details supplied) and the transfer of all of its services to the HSE or to a provider identified by the HSE over the coming 12 months due to a crisis in its funding; the additional funding being made available to avoid a disaster in the provision of disability and community care facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34676/20]

View answer

Written answers

The primary concern of the Minister for Health / Minster for Disabilities is to ensure the continuity of supports and services for people with disabilities and their families.

As the Deputy will be aware, specialist disability services are provided by a range of organisations. In some cases the HSE itself delivers these services directly and in other circumstances, the HSE relies upon funded providers to deliver these services.

Organisations such as St John of Gods Community Services provide services for people with a disability on behalf of the HSE, on a contract for services basis, underpinned by Section 38 of the Health Act 2004. Service Level Agreements are set out between the HSE and the individual organisations.

As the Deputy's question deals with services funded by the HSE, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for direct reply to the Deputy

Covid-19 Pandemic

Questions (681)

Niall Collins

Question:

681. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Health the planning to date which may allow an activity (details supplied) in December 2020 to proceed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34677/20]

View answer

Written answers

Firstly, I would like to assure you that the Government is committed to ensuring a balanced and proportionate response to COVID-19 by finding ways to implement public health measures in response to the pandemic in a way that is fair, reasonable and proportionate.

The Government recognises that there are many aspects of normal life that have been altered by the emergence of COVID-19, and the response that has been required. It also recognises that these changes are difficult for many people. However, it is the case at present that many of the things which we have previously taken for granted are no longer accessible in the same way due to the risks that they pose and the ease with which this virus spreads in particular conditions.

As you will be aware, in response to the rapidly deteriorating epidemiological situation across the country, Ireland is now at level 5 of the Government’s medium-term strategy for dealing with COVID-19, Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021: Plan for Living with COVID-19

This 5 level Framework reflects a careful consideration of the impact of the introduction of restrictions on employment and livelihoods, keeping as many businesses open as possible at different stages, while acknowledging that some businesses and services are critical.

Any measures introduced at any level of the Plan are aimed at limiting the spread and damage of COVID-19, and are necessary to protect our key priorities of supporting and maintaining health and social care services, keeping education and childcare services open and protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities.

As I'm sure you can appreciate, COVID-19 spreads when individuals and groups come into close contact with one another, enabling the virus to move from one person to another. COVID-19 is infectious in a person with no symptoms, or for the period of time before they develop symptoms. The number of people allowed to gather in different scenarios in the Government's Framework are based on a review of international practice and the judgment of public health experts. It seeks to balance the risks of different types of gatherings against the desire to allow normal activities to proceed in so far as possible.

At level 5 of the Plan, unfortunately, this means closing many businesses and amenities to reduce the person-to-person contacts which allow the virus to spread. At Level 5 essential retail and essential services will remain open. Further information on essential retail and essential services at Level 5 can be found at: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/2dc71-level-5/#retail-and-services-for-example-hairdressers-beauticians-barbers.

The regulations relating to Level 5 restrictions, S.I. 448 of 2020 (Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (COVID-19) (NO. 8) Regulations 2020), are in place until the 1st December 2020. It is not possible to say what circumstances will apply beyond that date. However, I can assure the Deputy, that whilst the Government will be guided at all times by the emerging scientific understanding of the virus and by the advice of the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), it is also committed to ensuring a balanced and proportionate response to COVID-19.

Further information on all levels of Resilience and Recovery 2020-2021: Plan for Living with COVID-19 is available at:www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/resilience-recovery-2020-2021-plan-for-living-with-covid-19/.

Hospital Services

Questions (682)

Matt Carthy

Question:

682. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Health the estimated full-year cost of increasing the opening hours of the minor injuries unit at Monaghan General Hospital from the existing hours of 9:00am to 5:00pm Monday to Friday to 8:00am to 8:00pm Monday to Sunday; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34689/20]

View answer

Written answers

As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly as soon as possible.

Nursing Staff

Questions (683)

Matt Carthy

Question:

683. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Health the number of full-time staff nurses working in Cavan General Hospital in each of the years 2016 to 2019 and to date in 2020, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34690/20]

View answer

Written answers

As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy, as soon as possible.

Nursing Staff

Questions (684)

Matt Carthy

Question:

684. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Health the number of full-time staff nurses working in Monaghan Hospital in each of the years 2016 to 2019 and to date in 2020, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34691/20]

View answer

Written answers

As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy, as soon as possible.

Top
Share