Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 November 2021
644. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Health if those vaccinated outside of Ireland can avail of their Covid-19 booster jab in Ireland; if so, the way in which they should access the system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56079/21]
View answerThe immunisation programme in Ireland is based on the advice of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC). The NIAC makes recommendations on vaccination policy to my Department based on the prevalence of the relevant disease in Ireland and international best practices in relation to immunisation.
The NIAC has recommended that a booster dose of an mRNA vaccine (irrespective of whether the primary vaccination course was of an mRNA or adenoviral vector) be offered to those aged 60 years and older and healthcare workers. The booster dose should be given after an interval of six months (or at least five months) following the last dose of any authorised COVID-19 vaccine. I have accepted this advice and the HSE has made the necessary arrangements to operationalise these recommendations with the booster rollout now underway.
In line with the approach implemented for the primary vaccination programme, individuals resident in the State will be eligible to receive a booster dose of Covid-19 vaccine when deemed appropriate for their specific cohort in line with NIAC advice.
Operational responsibility for the Covid-19 vaccination programme is with the HSE any queries relating to access to a vaccine should be directed to them.
