Children aged between 5-11 years could begin to receive Covid-19 vaccines in the coming weeks.
Tanáiste Leo Varadkar has confirmed that the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) met on Monday to discuss approving vaccines for children.
It’s understood NIAC discussed the priority order of vaccines for this age group with children with underlying conditions or immunocompromised expected to be prioritised.
Speaking on Friday following the Government’s decision to reintroduce Covid-19 restrictions, the Taoiseach said the first batch of vaccines are expected to arrive here on December 15.
He said: “We are also going to commence a childhood vaccination programme subject to NIAC advice.
“That’s on track now and the vaccines are coming somewhat earlier into the country on December 15.
“The first batch of vaccines for children will come in and the second batch in early January so we should be in a position to commence a vaccination programme for children subject to NIAC advice.”
Speaking on RTÉ’s Claire Byrne Live show on Monday night, Tanáiste Leo Varadkar said there would be a “significant decision” made on vaccinations for children soon.
He added that NIAC met on Monday to discuss the priority order of vaccinations, “particularly in relation to children aged 5-11, which we are keen to get started in the new year.”
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