Excess deaths and Chief Medical Officer
Mattie McGrath raised rising excess deaths and asked whether the Chief Medical Officer had reported back to the Taoiseach. The Minister said the matter could be discussed through the Business Committee.
There was a sharp increase in excess deaths in Ireland in 2022, continuing in 2023, with our excess mortality rate the fourth highest in the EU. Ireland's excess mortality used typically to be below the EU average. Ireland's excess rate is currently up 25%, which is a shocking figure.
We are all approached on a daily basis by people concerned about this. On 1 February last, the Taoiseach told the Dáil he would ask the Chief Medical Officer for her opinion on this. Has she expressed an opinion yet? Will she come back? We need a full debate in this House. I will write to the Business Committee to ask for that. The 25% increase in excess deaths is a huge concern. We rub our hands and just ignore it. It is not acceptable and it must be investigated. We must have a proper and meaningful debate on this.
Comment on this
I understand the Chief Whip will engage through the Business Committee to arrange a debate on the issue raised by various Deputies about what happened at the weekend in Dublin regarding international protection applicants.
Comment on this
She will discuss it with the Deputy at the Business Committee.