Ivana Bacik
Ceist:3. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Taoiseach his views on the need for an inquiry into the national Covid response. [56608/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 17 January 2024
Ceisteanna (3, 10)
Francis Noel Duffy
Ceist:10. Deputy Francis Noel Duffy asked the Taoiseach the members of the public inquiry committee investigating the State's response to the Covid pandemic; and if it will include scientists. [1298/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 3 and 10 together.
A comprehensive evaluation of how the country managed COVID-19 will provide an opportunity to learn lessons from our experiences in dealing with a pandemic. It will include a review of the whole-of-government response to the pandemic and how we might do better and be in a stronger position if another pandemic or other similar type event were to occur. It will include a consideration of the health service response covering hospitals, the community and nursing homes, along with the wider economic and social response.
It is intended to have a public element to hear the lived experiences of all society.
The review should be undertaken by those independent of the national response and with relevant expertise.
A consultation with opposition party leaders has been scheduled.
It is intended to bring the terms of reference to Government shortly.