Marie Sherlock (Dublin Central, Labour)
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501. To ask the Minister for Health when she plans to publish a new national cardiovascular health policy, which expired in 2019; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13254/25]

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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The Programme for Government 2025 outlines this Government’s commitment to improving public health, including building on the existing National Cardiovascular Policy.

The National Review of Adult Specialist Cardiac Services (NRCS) is finalised. The Review provides a detailed, evidence-driven analysis of cardiac services across the Country. A wide range of stakeholders - clinical, patient and public - were consulted as part of this review.

I am currently reviewing the Report in advance of publication. Publication of the Review will facilitate the development of the new national cardiovascular strategy. That will take time to develop and will require significant reform to ensure effectiveness and sustainability.

Cardiovascular health is a major pillar of the health funding announced as part of Budget 2025. This included over €9 million in full-year costs to support important cardiovascular health initiatives, including €4m and 45 posts for cardiac services. This funding has enabled initial reform in cardiac services and will support the development of a new cardiovascular strategy in the longer term.