The Tánaiste has assured that the Laura Brennan catch-up vaccination program will proceed despite opposition within the civil service. Simon Harris has pledged to present a detailed plan for the rollout of the HPV catch-up program within the next three weeks following discussions in the Dáil. He has urged all TDs to combat vaccine misinformation and publicly declare their support for the HPV program.

Campaigners have expressed worries about the decline in vaccine uptake, which can prevent various cancers such as cervical and throat cancer. They are calling on the government to reinstate the previously successful catch-up program. Since 2019, vaccination rates have been decreasing, resulting in approximately 16,000 young individuals missing out on the vaccine each year.

Responding to inquiries from Green Party leader Roderic O'Gorman, Mr. Harris confirmed that the government will extend the Laura Brennan HPV catch-up vaccination program to individuals under 25 who missed the initial vaccination. He emphasized the government's commitment to this program and stressed the importance of eradicating cancer through vaccination.

Mr. Harris also called on all elected representatives to publicly pledge their support for the HPV vaccine, emphasizing the need to combat pseudoscience. He highlighted the potential to effectively eliminate cancer through vaccination, particularly among young women and men.

Mr. O'Gorman raised concerns about the timing of the catch-up rollout and the lack of clarity from the Department of Health. Despite some opposition to a broad catch-up campaign, the Tánaiste clarified the government's commitment to the program.

He acknowledged the severe risks associated with the HPV virus, including cervical cancer, oropharyngeal cancer, and other life-threatening illnesses that can develop years after infection.