Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 May 2026
1196. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Health if she will provide a State-issued medical exemption for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35045/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe immunisation programme in Ireland is based on the advice of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC). The committee's recommendations are based on the prevalence of the relevant disease in Ireland and international best practice in relation to immunisation.
All medicines, including vaccines are subject to on-going review and evaluation of all available data from a range of sources, including systematic scientific literature review, to consider any impact that their data may have on the overall assessment of the benefits and risks of a medicinal product. The safety of these vaccines continues to be monitored at EU level through the EMA and its expert committees, which includes representatives from member state competent authorities such as the HPRA.
In Ireland, immunisation is optional and is offered free of charge to eligible at-risk groups as part of the National Immunisation Programme. A person can, of course, refuse any offer of vaccination on religious, conscientious or other grounds. I note that an appropriate medical exemption has already been issued by the relevant General Practitioner, in this matter.
