Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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699. To ask the Minister for Health the savings realised from the administration of vaccines by pharmacists as opposed to general practitioners; if other potential opportunities for transfer of duties have been explored; the potential savings identified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36424/13]

Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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732. To ask the Minister for Health the savings that would be achieved from transferring responsibility for administration of seasonal flu vaccine to community pharmacists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36614/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 699 and 732 together.

Regulations were introduced in October 2011 to provide a legal basis for community pharmacists to supply and administer seasonal influenza vaccine. The fee for pharmacists of €15 was set in accordance with the provisions of the Community Pharmacy Contractor (CPC) Agreement. This provides a choice for those to whom this vaccination is recommended either to have the vaccine administered by their GP or by a participating pharmacist. Based on HSE vaccine delivery statistics, thus far, the majority of those vaccinated have opted to have their seasonal influenza vaccination administered by their GP.

Under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2009, I am preparing legislation to bring the fees for GP administration of seasonal influenza in line with those set for pharmacists. This will result in further savings expected to be in the region of €5m in a full year.

There are no plans to transfer responsibility for administration of seasonal flu vaccine to community pharmacists. Seasonal Flu vaccination forms part of the Adult Immunisation Programme operated by the HSE. Seasonal Flu vaccination is available every year as the vaccine changes every year to suit the strain of the circulating virus. The vaccine is free to those in at risk groups.