Pádraig Rice (Cork South-Central, Social Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

100. To ask the Minister for Health if her attention has been drawn to a 30% rise in the incidence of tuberculosis in the past year; if she will provide an update on the implementation of ‘Striving to End Tuberculosis: A strategy for Ireland 2024-2030’; if she will publish an implementation plan and provide the necessary funding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52409/25]

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health concern both globally and in Ireland. While Ireland is a low-incidence country, recent figures show a rise in cases. There were 226 cases reported in 2023 and 289 in 2024. So far in 2025, 218 cases have been notified. My Department and the HSE continue to monitor the situation closely. The HSE works with partners and communities to raise awareness, especially among people at higher risk.

In 2024, the HSE published Striving to End Tuberculosis: A Strategy for Ireland 2024–2030. This five-year plan is Ireland’s first national TB strategy. It is aligned with WHO targets of reducing incidence by 80% and deaths by 90% by 2030.

A detailed implementation plan, developed by the National TB Advisory Committee is guiding delivery.

The HSE is progressing implementation through existing services and resources. Work is underway to introduce a selective BCG vaccination programme next year. An updated TB Resources Report will align staffing and funding with current needs. New national TB guidelines are also being developed, with completion expected by end-2025.

People with TB are benefiting from shorter, more tolerable treatments. Multidisciplinary teams are expanding access to care and support. Enhanced surveillance, including genome sequencing, improves outbreak response and data quality.

These actions demonstrate the progress made in delivering the national TB strategy.