Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 January 2021
507. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Health if undocumented persons living in Ireland will be able to access the Covid-19 vaccine; if it can be assured that they will not be reported to the immigration authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2392/21]
View answerThe Irish COVID-19 Vaccination Programme is designed to ensure the safe, effective, and efficient administration of a COVID-19 vaccine to all residents of Ireland who are indicated within the Vaccine Allocation strategy and wish to receive it.
The HSE has identified undocumented migrants as a higher risk group for COVID-19. There is a community assessment hub located in Dublin city centre specifically for such groups. The HSE has provided additional health supports for undocumented migrants (e.g., GP service in Capuchin Centre). A similar targeted approach will apply in terms of the COVID-19 vaccination programme.
The HSE does not report undocumented migrants to immigration authorities.
It is important that undocumented migrants are encouraged and facilitated to take-up the Covid-19 vaccine.
