Minister Donnelly seeks expressions of interest for positions on the National Screening Advisory Committee
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From: Department of Health
- Published on: 9 September 2024
- Last updated on: 13 September 2024
The Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly has announced a call for expressions of interest for membership of the National Screening Advisory Committee (NSAC).
This independent committee makes recommendations to the Minister on the introduction of new population-based screening programmes or changes to existing programmes.
There are currently nine vacancies on the NSAC and individuals with expertise in the following areas are now being sought:
- paediatrics and child health
- public health
- nursing and midwifery
- general practice
- laboratory services
- genetics
- social science
- epidemiology
- pathology
Minister Donnelly said:
"The NSAC plays a crucial role in contributing to the shaping of screening policy in Ireland through the provision of evidence-based recommendations to my department. We are seeing significant progress in this area, with much work being done on the expansion of newborn bloodspot screening.
"In order for the NSAC to continue its excellent work, it is essential that we have the necessary voices represented on the Committee and I would strongly encourage anyone with relevant experience to apply."
Chair of the National Screening Advisory Committee, Dr Suzanne Crowe said:
"I am pleased to invite expressions of interest to join NSAC. The work of the Committee is engaging, stimulating and rewarding. Members have an opportunity to be part of a diverse group of experts directly contributing to the future of screening. On behalf of the Committee, I look forward to receiving applications from a range of backgrounds and perspectives."
The positions are currently advertised on StateBoards and the NSAC website.
The closing date for applications is 5pm, Friday 4 October 2024.
Further information is outlined in the candidate information booklet. Potential applicants are encouraged to read this information carefully prior to submitting an application.
Notes
The National Screening Advisory Committee (NSAC) is an independent advisory committee which advises the Minister and Department of Health on proposals for new screening programmes and changes to existing programmes.
The Committee plays a significant strategic role in the formulation of recommendations and consideration of evidence relating to proposed screening programmes in Ireland.
Members are appointed to the Committee by the Minister for Health. Successful applicants will be appointed for a five-year term, with the option of a three-year extension.
NSAC does not have any operational role in the day-to-day running of any screening programmes. That remains the responsibility of the Health Service Executive (HSE).
NSAC has made six recommendations to the Minister for Health to date. Further information on these recommendations can be found on the NSAC website. The Committee’s work programme is available on www.nsacommittee.gov.ie.
The Committee is chaired by Dr Suzanne Crowe and meets three to four times per year. Meetings are organised in a blended format, with members having the option to attend in person or virtually, to discuss new screening programmes, modifications to existing programmes and related activities. The Committee receives administrative support from the NSAC Secretariat, in the Department of Health.
Any questions in relation to the Expression of Interest process should be sent to the NSAC Secretariat - NSAC_Secretariat@health.gov.ie