In accordance with An Agreed Programme for Government, the Government is committed to maintaining up-to-date nuclear emergency plans, including sufficient stocks of medical supplies, so as to minimise harm to public health from the effects of any possible exposure to radiation in Ireland. Stable iodine tablets are regarded as an effective counter-measure to radiation in certain circumstances. The question of the provision, supply and distribution of iodine tablets is a matter for the Minister for Health and Children.
There is a national emergency plan for nuclear accidents, NEPNA, in place. This is a continually evolving issue and is under constant review and maintenance in accordance with international developments and best practice. An information booklet describing the main features of the NEPNA can be accessed on the website of my Department, www.environ.ie, and on that of the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland, www.rpii.ie.