Culture Secretary addresses reports surplus covid vaccines could be sent from UK to Ireland
The Sunday Times reports the government is planning to offer 3.7 million jabs
Last updated 28th Mar 2021
The Culture Secretary says the UK isn't currently in a position to think about the allocation of surplus coronavirus vaccines
Oliver Dowden has been questioned over reports excess jabs could be sent to Ireland.
The Sunday Times reports the government is planning to offer 3.7 million jabs - in part to help lift lockdown in Northern Ireland.
Rollout of vaccinations has been slower in the Republic of Ireland than in Northern Ireland.
Mr. Dowden told Sky's Sophy Ridge on Sunday, “Clearly, our first priority is ensuring we deliver vaccines in the United Kingdom.”
“We clearly don't currently have a surplus of vaccines, should we get to the point where we have a surplus of vaccines we'd make decisions on the allocation of that surplus.''
Meanwhile, The Irish Government says it’s not aware of a specific plan for the UK to share supplies with Ireland.
A spokesperson said, “The UK has previously indicated that once it has achieved a high level of vaccination of its own population, it would consider sharing vaccines with other countries.”
“We are not aware of any specific plans to share vaccines with Ireland at this stage.”
“The Irish and UK governments maintain close contact across all matters of common interest.''