Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent)
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61. To ask the Minister for Health the reason parents are not being provided with the manufacturer's patient information leaflet on the risk involved prior to the administration of a drug (details supplied) to their children. [9196/16]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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All vaccination information provided to parents is prepared from the available licensed documentation for each vaccine, the Summary of Products Characteristics and Patient Information Leaflet. The information is presented in clear simple language and approved by the National Adult Literacy Agency so that it can be understood by all adults as the average reading age in Ireland is 12 years of age.

Prior to all school immunisation parents receive an information pack in a sealed package which contains an information leaflet, consent form and cover letter. Information packs for all immunisation are standardised nationally. The information booklets include information on the most common adverse events that can occur after each vaccination. Parents are also given contact details for their local immunisation office and advised to speak to a member of the school immunisation team if they have any further questions.

Should parents require additional information about vaccines the immunisation leaflet refers to the HSE’s national immunisation website () where further information is available. The national immunisation website has been accredited by the World Health Organisation for credibility, content and good information practices. The website allows members of the public to contact the National Immunisation Office to ask a question if they require further information. These questions, when possible, are answered by the staff of the National Immunisation Office within one working day.