Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Thousands of Irish people living in the United Arab Emirates got the Sinopharm Covid-19 vaccine at the first opportunity in February with the hopes of being able to travel back to Ireland this summer. They are now unable to get any other vaccine. On Sunday, the Minister, Deputy Donnelly, tweeted that people who are vaccinated will be exempt from the hotel quarantine. He listed Pfizer, Moderna, Astra-Zeneca and Janssen, with no mention of the Sinopharm vaccine. More than 70% of people in the United Arab Emirates are vaccinated but this seems not to be enough for the Irish Government to allow them to quarantine in their own towns. I am looking for clarity on this issue. I know my time has run out so the Minister cannot give it.

While I have the floor, since I do not have much chance to raise it, Vera Twomey and the medicinal cannabis issue is a significant issue and I would appreciate the Minister meeting us.

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