Duncan Smith (Dublin Fingal, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

374. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the number of Defence Forces personnel vaccinated; the hierarchy of defence personnel to be vaccinated; if the roll-out is dependent on HSE staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29670/21]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

I am informed by the Military Authorities that, as of 27 May 2021, 3,055 Defence Forces personnel have received their first dose of a vaccine and a further 1,223 personnel have received their second dose.

The COVID-19 vaccine Allocation Strategy was developed by the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) and the Department of Health, endorsed by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), and approved by Government. It sets out a provisional list of groups for vaccination. The Defence Forces has established vaccine prioritisation which is in line with this national allocation strategy.

Initial vaccination priority is for Defence Force personnel who are providing front line support to the HSE and National Ambulance Service (NAS) in the national effort to combat COVID 19. Defence Forces personnel have been, and continue to be, heavily engaged in providing front line support in a number of key areas which includes but is not limited to; Testing program support, Vaccination program support, and the Mandatory Quarantine Scheme.

In addition, where possible, Defence Forces personnel selected for overseas service, will be vaccinated prior to their deployment. This will be subject to availability of a vaccine which is coordinated through the HSE.  

Defence Forces personnel have been vaccinated by both HSE personnel (including NAS) and by Defence Forces medical personnel..

As the national vaccination programme continues to gather pace, other Defence Forces personnel will also be vaccinated as they fall into the designated age categories for vaccination.