The issue was raised by Sinn Fein TD Gerry Adams after one of the party's local councillor, who is due to give birth, was told the jab would not be administered to her baby as recommended by the HSE.
In response to a Parliamentary Question put forward by the Louth TD – The Health Minister detailed difficulties that have arisen with the Danish supplier for the vaccine for the HSE.
Leo Varadkar said production difficulties, delivery delays and sealing problems had resulted in the BCG vaccine, which is produced in Denmark, not being available.
According to the Minister The last shipment of BCG vaccine due to arrive at the end of October 2014 arrived at the end of December 2014. The delay in delivery meant that two months shelf life was lost and this expired at the end of April 2015.
The issue with the supplier has now been resolved but with supplies of new vaccine only being produced now – they ill not be available until late 2015 early 2016.
Gerry Adams said despite the Department knowing of the problems since last year it failed to identify an alternative supplier to provide that vaccine in the short term and that as a result, at least 50,000 babies, and potentially many more, would not receive their BCG when appropriate supply is restored.
