Michael McNamara (Clare, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Nothing has changed since the last time I spoke to the Minister. Effectively, he is still trying to perform a loaves and fishes operation and make the small number of vaccines he has received stretch as far as possible. I think most people understand that. On the last occasion, the one question I asked was about people who have had Covid-19. There are studies from Public Health England and research institutes in the United States and elsewhere that indicate such people have at least a degree of immunity for an undefined period. Are those who have had Covid-19 still receiving the vaccine according to their place on the priority list or is it deemed that because they have a degree of immunity, they do not need to be afforded the same degree of priority?

I endorse what has been said regarding people with underlying conditions in category 7. I do not envy the Minister or NIAC. I acknowledge it will be NIAC that will have to prioritise among various cohorts. Once that prioritisation is done, will that include minors or just people in that age cohort?

If the Minister or the Minister of State could clarify those points, I would appreciate it.

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