Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 February 2025
1105. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Health her plans to assist the small number of people who may have had adverse reactions to Covid-19 vaccines; and whether there have been any discussions with vaccine manufacturers or indemnities provided in relation to adverse reactions from those vaccines. [2416/25]
View answerIn response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ireland, through its participation in an EU led procurement process, gained access to a broad range of vaccines that it might not otherwise have had access to, and at a cost negotiated collectively by the EU.
As part of this procurement exercise, Ireland opted into Purchase Agreements with several pharmaceutical companies. The contents of the Purchase Agreements, including with regard to liability and indemnity, were negotiated with vaccine suppliers by the European Commission through its negotiation team, acting on behalf of Member States. Member States may have decided to opt in / opt out, but did not and does not have scope to recast the provisions of any such Purchase Agreements.
The State Claims Agency (SCA) has a statutory remit to manage personal injury claims on behalf of State Authorities including the Health Service Executive, and management of any COVID-19 vaccine related claims have been delegated to it after Government approval was obtained to enter into the indemnity provisions of each agreement.
Additionally, my department is working to develop a model for a vaccine damage scheme and working through related policy matters. The development of such a model needs detailed consideration to ensure that it is appropriately designed. Once the model is developed, I will bring it to Cabinet for approval.
