Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 March 2021
745. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the position regarding discussions with an organisation (details supplied) regarding the offer from vets to assist with the Covid-19 vaccination programme when it comes to the stage that the supply of vaccine increases and the programme increases in pace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11110/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe HSE are building and deploying its workforce in order to be prepared for the requirements associated with rolling out the COVID-19 vaccine programme.
The vaccine rollout is being conducted on a 7-day week basis and to date, more than 8,600 staff have received training to operate as vaccinators. To support the expanded immunisation programme the HSE launched a vaccinator recruitment campaign last week.
GPs, Pharmacists, doctors, nurses, paramedics, and many healthcare professionals, will have a role to play in the vaccination programme.
In addition, on 23 February 2021, I signed the Medicinal Products (Prescription and Control of Supply) (Amendment) (No. 4) Regulations 2021. The purpose of these amending Regulations is to add registered optometrists and registered dentists to the list of professionals who may supply and administer Covid-19 vaccinations.
It is not intended that veterinarians will be called upon to participate as vaccinators in the programme at this time.
