Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 26 March 2026
444. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Health if she will consider that schools are often the first place where allergies are experienced and this is the reason relying on another child’s prescribed auto-injector is not a safe policy, therefore, every school should have its own emergency auto-injectors available to respond quickly when an unexpected reaction occurs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23205/26]
View answerIn October 2015, the Minister signed The Medicinal Products (Prescription and Control of Supply) (Amendment) (No.2) Regulations 2015 (S.I. 449/2015) into effect. The regulations empower schools to act swiftly if a serious allergic reaction occurs and 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. Of note, there is provision for organisations such as schools and workplaces to store these medications for the administration by a trained person e.g. a teachers or staff members who have completed appropriate training.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland provide guidance on the implementation of this amendment for pharmacists, and the Pre Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC) has established a course for the education and training of persons to safely and competently administer adrenaline in an emergency.
There is a 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 person.
