Healthcare Policy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 January 2024

Tuesday, 30 January 2024

Questions (570)

Louise O'Reilly

Question:

570. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Health if he can provide information on what aspects of public health it is envisioned the new agency being set up to deal with emerging health threats will deal; if the agency will deal only with infectious diseases and pandemic preparedness; what definition of "emerging threats to public health" will be used; if threats to public health will be broader to deal with risk factors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4284/24]

Written answers

Minister for Health

In July 2021, the Minister for Health and Government agreed to establish a Public Health Reform Expert Advisory Group to examine the public health response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The report of the Public Health Reform Expert Advisory Group went to Government on 6 September 2023 and following a government decision, the report was published. 

Following publication of the report, Government also agreed to the appointment of an independent expert who will design a dedicated, emerging health threats function, building on existing assets and infrastructure to focus on infectious diseases, pandemic preparedness, and other emerging threats to public health. On 21 November, the Minister for Health announced the appointment of Professor Mary Horgan to this role and it is expected that her proposal on the optimal institutional arrangements will be bought to Government in the middle of 2024.