Sinn Féin spokesperson on Health David Cullinane TD has welcomed the news that the EMA has recommended conditional marketing authorisation for the Johnson & Johnson Covid-19 vaccine.

Teachta Cullinane said:

“The approval of Johnson & Johnson’s easily-stored single dose Covid-19 vaccine is an important step forward in the battle with the virus.

“More than half a million doses are due for Ireland from April to June.

“What is needed now are clear timeframes for the delivery and administration of these vaccines.

“The Minister must engage with Johnson & Johnson to ensure regular and transparent supply in accordance with the agreement.

“There is also an onus on the government to engage with the Biden administration to ease export restrictions.

“The US should cooperate with Ireland and the EU on the manufacturing of Johnson & Johnson vaccines to ensure delivery in a timely fashion.

“We must continue to stress to governments and corporations that cooperation in vaccine development and production is the best and only way to optimise supply chains, maximise delivery, and ensure an equitable distribution of vaccines globally.”