Dáil debates

Thursday, 22 April 2021

Covid-19 Vaccination Programme: Statements

 

1:55 pm

Photo of Patricia RyanPatricia Ryan (Kildare South, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Owing to the time constraints, I will ask my questions together. My office has been inundated with calls from people outlining very hard cases and highlighting the confusion that is coming from the Department of Health. This week we have strict following of vaccination groups. Last week the Minister flew a kite about vaccinating young people. Next week we might have something else; I do not know. People are fed up with the indecision and we need clarity. There is too much confusion and misinformation. The Department, the HSE and NPHET need to get on the same page. I listened to the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine on "Ireland AM" this morning. When asked a question, he described last week as a bit of a blip. However, it was a bit more than a bit of a blip.

The family of a lady in her 90s came to me last week. She had been in hospital recently and was unable to attend her vaccination appointment. Hospitals do not do vaccinations apparently; at least that was what I was told. Therefore, she is falling between the cracks. I find it bizarre that hospitals do not vaccinate people. Unfortunately, she is not in a golden circle and cannot rely on well-connected friends to look out for her. When will hospitals be able to vaccinate vulnerable people in hospitals as a matter of routine?

Teachers, SNAs and early childhood education workers have contacted me in recent weeks to express their concerns over the spread of Covid-19 in schools. They are particularly concerned about teachers who are medically vulnerable. Can this category be prioritised so that we can ensure continuity of education?

Deputy Tully asked about carers. I am very concerned about carers who are doing amazing work for little or no reward. When will we be able to vaccinate our carers to protect them and the people they are caring for? Those carers are saving the Government an absolute fortune by doing the work that they do.

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