492. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health the details of the latest research and evidence informing the current Covid-19 booster vaccine campaign (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39649/24]

The immunisation programme in Ireland is based on the advice of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC). The committee's recommendations are based on the prevalence of the relevant disease in Ireland and international best practice in relation to immunisation. These recommendations are then implemented by the HSE through the National Immunisation Office.

The protection COVID-19 vaccines afford wanes gradually over time, increasing the risk for those susceptible to severe disease as time from their last vaccine lapses. The emergence of new variants coupled with time lapse from vaccination may result in gradual waning of protection and the need for booster vaccination to enhance protection.

NIAC continues to revise recommendations to allow for the introduction of new vaccines in Ireland and to keep abreast of changes in the patterns of disease. Therefore, the immunisation schedule will continue to be amended over time.