Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 December 2025
682. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health whether her Department has conducted any review since 2018 of the regulatory, quality assurance and clinical governance framework applying to health screening conducted outside the HSE, including screening arranged by employers, universities and occupational health providers, and if not, whether she intends to commission such a review. [73509/25]
View answer683. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health to outline which statutory bodies hold responsibility for oversight, standards setting or enforcement in respect of non HSE health screening, including any role of HIQA, the Medical Council, CORU or the HPRA, and the policy basis on which those responsibilities are assigned. [73510/25]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 682 and 683 together.
As Minister for Health, I am committed to supporting our population screening programmes, which are a valuable part of our health service, enabling early treatment and care for many people, and improving the overall health of our population.
The National Screening Advisory Committee (NSAC) is the independent expert group that considers proposed changes to Ireland’s screening programmes, all of which are delivered by the Health Service Executive (HSE). NSAC assesses the evidence in a robust and transparent manner and against internationally accepted criteria, before making recommendations to myself as Minister.
I would emphasise that screening programmes are for people without symptoms. If anyone becomes aware of symptoms, or if they have concerns or worries, they should contact a medical professional immediately.
As per my reply to PQRef: 69973/25, my Department does not have responsibility for the oversight of health screening or checks organised outside of the HSE. Details on bodies outside the aegis of my Department are operational matters for the bodies concerned and I would encourage the Deputy to contact the relevant Director/CEO/Registrar directly.
