Specialist masks had already been stockpiled “in the event of a no-deal Brexit”, health chiefs say.
But they are “doing all we can to provide necessary and appropriate PPE to colleagues in all health and care sectors”, the Department of Health said today.
The statement was issued amid some concern that there is not enough protective equipment, including masks, for health workers dealing with the Coronavirus pandemic.
They say they “fully appreciate the concerns of our colleagues across health and social care at this time and the need for adequate supplies of Protective Personal Equipment (PPE) to help keep them safe”.
Care workers among others have raised concerns about access to equipment such as masks.
The statement added: “There have been major efforts over recent days to distribute urgently required items such as facemasks, faceshields and visors.
“Northern Ireland’s PPE stock includes equipment that had been stockpiled in the event of a no-deal Brexit and for emergencies such as this. We have been using that stock to meet current demand.
“Every effort is being made and will continue to be made to secure replacement and alternative PPE stock from all sources. We will also keep our supply and stock management systems under constant review, to ensure timely distribution where it’s needed.
“There is international demand pressure for PPE as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and the fact that China was a major global supplier. Responding to these challenges, the HSC system will continue to prioritise work to boost stocks, both locally and through NHS-wide arrangements.
“We anticipate strong interest from local industry in helping to meet demand and we are engaging with them alongside Invest NI.”
The Depatment added that “staff across all sectors” are working with the “HSC’s Business Services Organisation and other colleagues working on supply chains”.
They said: “Everyone across health and social care is asked to continue carefully planning use of PPE to ensure best use of current supplies.
“Easily accessible training resources have been made available on PPE use and information has also been specifically targeted for the community and independent sectors.”
