Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 June 2026
848. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 698 of 23 June 2026, whether she has raised with the HSE the absence of central tracking of Garda vetting lapses relating to agency staff, given the patient safety implications; and the timeline for HSE response. [49267/26]
View answerThe HSE has robust vetting procedures in place to protect patients, service users, and staff.
Garda Vetting Clearance is mandatory for all new employees working with children or vulnerable adults, and regulated professionals must hold current registration with their statutory authority.
In consultation with the Garda National Vetting Bureau (GNVB) the HSE’s Garda Vetting Liaison Office (GVLO) has implemented the required approach to vetting in as efficient a way as possible.
The matter referred to by the Deputy has been brought to the attention of the HSE by my Department on behalf of the Minister. The Minister recognises the importance of robust Garda vetting arrangements, including appropriate oversight of agency staff, in supporting patient safety. The HSE has been asked to provide an update on the issues raised, including the absence of central tracking of Garda vetting lapses relating to agency staff. A response has been requested as a matter of priority, and the Department will revert to the Deputy once the HSE’s reply has been received..
