Tackling the problem of antimicrobial resistance is a multifaceted issue which will require action on a number of fronts. Since 2001 approximately €12 million has been provided to the health boards for antimicrobial resistance measures, taking into account the recommendations in SARI and in the North-South study of MRSA in Ireland in 1999. The boards have been asked to address, in particular, infection control strategies and staffing in both hospitals and the community, the development of surveillance systems for the collection of antimicrobial resistance data and information on antibiotic prescribing in hospitals.