Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2020
1259. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Health if consideration has been given to appointing a representative from the Mental Health Commission onto the National Public Health Emergency Team expert group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15704/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is no doubt aware, the NPHET for COVID-19 is accountable to me as Minister for Health and is made up of senior public officials of the Department of Health and a number of relevant State Agencies, in addition to highly qualified subject matter experts from disciplines such as virology, infectious diseases, intensive care etc. who are among the leading practitioners in their fields in this country.
The NPHET can add to its membership on the basis of the additional expertise or support it identifies as being required so as to ensure that it is in the best possible position to provide advice and recommendations for consideration by the Minister for Health and the Government. These are the criteria on which the NPHET identifies the requirement for particular expertise. This flexibility in approach to selection is necessary for a group such as this in the context of an international public health crisis of the kind we are currently experiencing due to the pandemic, and gives effect to Ireland’s obligations to the WHO.
The NPHET established the NPHET Vulnerable Peoples Subgroup, which has broad membership from across Government Departments, Agencies and key stakeholders. The Subgroup was established to provide oversight and assurance with regard to the specific preparedness, measures and actions that need to be taken to protect vulnerable groups and individuals in society. The Subgroup includes a representative of the Mental Health Commission and ensures that the interests of people with mental health issues continue to be upheld during the COVID-19 emergency.
