Minister for Health to attend the WHO Regional Committee for Europe
Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD, will travel to Copenhagen today to attend the 76th session of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Committee for Europe, underlining Ireland’s commitment to strong international cooperation on health.
The WHO Regional Committee for Europe serves as the primary decision-making body for the WHO European Region, which comprises 53 countries, including the 27 EU Member States. It provides a platform for countries to discuss public health priorities, review progress, and make decisions that guide WHO’s work in the region.
Minister Carroll MacNeill will deliver a statement at the WHO on behalf of the 27 EU Member States, as part of Ireland’s role as President of the Council of the European Union – the Minister will also attend several bilateral meetings.
Speaking ahead of the WHO Regional Committee, Minister Carroll MacNeill said:
“I am honoured to deliver a statement on behalf of the European Union at the WHO Regional Committee for Europe. At a time of growing pressure on global health, Ireland and our EU partners stand firmly behind a strong, effective World Health Organisation, with predictable funding to deliver where it matters most – to build more resilient, equitable and sustainable health services.
“Ireland will continue to engage closely with the WHO Regional Office for Europe and regional partners to ensure collaboration on issues including health emergencies, universal health coverage and health inequalities.
“I commend the vital support that the WHO office is providing to Ukraine and applaud the unwavering commitment of WHO in alleviating the immense suffering of people in Gaza.
“Healthcare workers, patients and hospitals must be protected in every conflict, and humanitarian assistance must reach those who urgently need it.”