Gino Kenny (Dublin Mid West, People Before Profit Alliance) | Oireachtas source

I am sharing time with Deputy Barry. I will take three minutes and he will take two.

Today marks one year since the WHO declared the coronavirus a global pandemic. Since then, 6,500 people on this island and 2.5 million across the world have lost their lives. The pandemic has caused devastation for many people on the planet, as well as economic turmoil. We have seen the best of humanity and solidarity. We have witnessed the wonders of science and research and development and a vaccine that will protect the whole of humanity.

The global crisis warrants a global response. A very important vote will take place today at the WTO requesting that intellectual property rights be waived to give poorer countries across the world access to vaccines. In light of the vast amounts of money - up to €8 billion - that have been given to pharmaceutical companies, they should show altruism. According to an Oxfam survey published yesterday, 62% of people in Ireland want the Government to ensure that pharmaceutical companies share Covid vaccine science and technology with other approved companies globally. Has the Government used its influence with the European Commission as regards today's vote on intellectual property rights? Has it requested pharmaceutical companies in Ireland, which have significant capacities, to increase production of the vaccine not only in Ireland, but across the world? No one is safe until everyone is safe. That is an important point to remember on the day that is in it.

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