Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 June 2022
905. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Health if the Government intend to access funding from the European Union’s EU4Health programme which allows for European Union member states to access funding to support the roll-out of screening programmes for non-communicable diseases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34434/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI welcome the EU4Health Programme which, with a budget of €5.1bn, is ten times larger than the previous European Health Programme. Mandating a wide range of support to health policies and actions, it presents a significant opportunity for Ireland. The EU4Health annual work plans are structured around four overarching strands – crisis preparedness, health promotion & disease prevention, health systems & healthcare workforce, and digital – with a cross-cutting priority on cancer. My Department participates actively in the EU4Health Steering Group and Programme Committee and, together with its aegis bodies including the Health Service Executive and Health Research Board, works to bring possible support measures under EU4Health to the attention of health authorities and eligible stakeholders. Opportunities including in relation to support for screening programmes will continue to receive due consideration with a view to appropriate participation.
