392. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Health whether the forthcoming National Cardiovascular Health Strategy will be developed as a comprehensive National Cardiovascular Health Strategy that builds upon the recommendations of the National Review of Adult Specialist Cardiac Services while also aligning with the objectives of the European Commission's Safe Hearts Plan and the forthcoming EU Council Recommendation on cardiovascular health and screening. [66224/26]

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) encompasses a range of conditions including heart attack and stroke. It remains a leading cause of death in Ireland and results in significant hospital bed days. CVD claimed the lives of almost 10,000 people in Ireland in 2024.

Ireland has made progress in tackling CVD. While CVD mortality is now approximately half the level recorded in 1995, it remains a leading cause of ill health, with major impacts on patients and their families. The absolute number of CVD cases has increased due to the rise in population and Ireland’s ageing demographics. CVD imposes significant social and personal costs for patients including reduced quality of life, and potential lost earnings.

The National Review of Adult Specialist Cardiac Services (NRCS) was published in April 2025 and provides a detailed, evidence-driven analysis of cardiac services across the Country. The Review which consulted with a wide range of stakeholders sets out a comprehensive road map for cardiac services development and reform. To support implementation of the recommendations, €9 million in full-year funding was allocated to support vital cardiovascular initiatives. Following publication of the NRCS, the HSE’s National Heart Office (NHO) developed a three-year implementation plan.

On 16th December 2025, the European Commission published Safe Hearts – the EU Cardiovascular Plan, a landmark initiative aimed at reducing premature deaths by improving prevention, early detection, and treatment, while also driving innovation. The plan emphasises shifting from treatment to prevention, and among other things calls for stronger action against tobacco and smoking. The plan encourages Member States to develop or implement standalone or integrated national cardiovascular health plans by 2027.

The Programme for Government places a strong focus on cardiovascular health and we have committed to the development of a new national cardiovascular plan. I am fully committed to advancing cardiovascular health at both EU and national level, supporting the implementation of the EU Safe Hearts Plan in Ireland, and the development of a new national cardiovascular plan. Officials are in the initial stages of developing the new plan and are actively engaging in the work required to ensure a robust and evidence-based approach.