David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I accept that the numbers this year are greater than last year. Some 950,000 doses were available last year for adults and it is 1.35 million this year. However, the anecdotal evidence, and the Minister has just confirmed that it is not only anecdotal but a fact, is that we simply will not have enough for those who need it. I read the ministerial brief in detail and it referred to a very ambitious programme this year and ensuring, insofar as possible, we have a general roll-out of this vaccine in the population. I imagine it was hoped that whatever number of people wanted the vaccine would get it. What was the target and ambition? How is it that we are left in a situation in which, unfortunately, there will not be enough for those who need it? Is it possible to order more now? We are hearing there is a worldwide shortage. Is there a process ongoing in which the Minister and the Government are trying to get more doses of this vaccine to meet demand?

See this speech in context