Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 March 2026
443. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Health to introduce an Allergy Action Plan, including education and training to ensure that the use of epinephrine auto-injectors is properly addressed in schools as this is an important step in helping ensure that all children can have a safe and positive experience in school without the constant need to be on guard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23204/26]
View answerIn October 2015, the then Minister for Health signed The Medicinal Products (Prescription and Control of Supply) (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 449/2015) into effect. These regulations increase access to specified prescription-only medicines in an emergency, including the use of adrenaline. This allows for the administration of adrenaline for known (or suspected) anaphylaxis to be administered by trained members of the public in emergency situations, without the need for a prescription. It is important to highlight that there is provision for organisations such as schools and workplaces to store these medications for the administration by a trained person.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland provide guidance on the implementation of this amendment for pharmacists, and the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council has developed a course for the education and training of persons to safely and competently administer adrenaline in an emergency.
There is responsibility to ensure that medications are stored and administered safely and appropriately. Those with a known risk of anaphylaxis should carefully follow their doctor’s guidance regarding carrying an adrenaline pen (‘EpiPen’) on their person.
Community pharmacies are among the most accessible and trusted healthcare providers in Ireland. The State recognises the importance of pharmacies being prepared to administer these medicines safely and effectively. This is reflected in the Community Pharmacy Agreement 2025 which establishes an Emergency Medicine Administration Preparedness Allowance. To recognise that community pharmacists are authorised to administer emergency medicines, and that this service is provided on an ad hoc basis requiring pharmacists to be trained and ready to respond, an annual recurring allowance of €525 will be made available to community pharmacy contractors, which commenced in January 2026. Further details are available at: https://ipu.ie/ipu-review-article/community-pharmacy-agreement-2025-building-a-sustainable-pharmacy-model-for-the-future/#ScrollDown.
