Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the witnesses. I had some IT problems at the beginning of the meeting so I apologise in advance if any of the points I raise have been covered.

I am concerned that there is no clear advice and no recommendations from NPHET on vitamin D supplementation. I have tabled parliamentary questions on this in recent months, most recently a couple of weeks ago. The Minister told me that the existing guidance on vitamin D, which was updated in November, advises adults over 65 years to take 15 g per day for bone and muscle health. I was disappointed that the Minister for Health did not inform me of any advice in relation to Covid and the role of vitamin D in supporting a strong immune system. The reply went on to say that NPHET had considered this matter in January and agreed that efforts should be made to increase awareness of existing guidance and that adults spending increased time indoors, etc., are also recommended to take a vitamin D supplement. The Minister is saying that a small amount of vitamin D supplementation is recommended for bone health and NPHET is repeating the advice and saying the recommendations for vitamin D are being incorporated into wider messaging on Covid. I have not heard that wider messaging from NPHET - I do not know if others have - but it is really important that we get that messaging very clear. What engagement, if any, has the group had with NPHET? This issue needs to be pursued actively by the committee. We have seen how NPHET, while it is doing great work, can be a bit behind the curve. It was certainly behind the curve on face masks and ventilation and it seems that is also the case with regard to the role of vitamin D. That is a matter the committee will take up and pursue with NPHET.

Is there a country that the group would hold up as the best model in relation to the importance it attaches to vitamin D in the context of Covid specifically? Is there a difference between taking vitamin D fortified foods and taking supplements? Which would the witnesses recommend?

On nursing homes, it seems there is a perfect opportunity to ensure that cohort of older and vulnerable people are taking the recommended amount by way of supplements. What is happening with regard to nursing homes and what engagement have the witnesses had with, say, Nursing Homes Ireland or the sector generally?