Press release
Minister for Health attends first-ever Ukrainian Summit for European Health Ministers
From Department of Health
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Health
Published on
Last updated on
Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly is today (Wednesday 6 September) representing Ireland at a Ukrainian Summit of European Health Ministers.
Ukraine is marking the Summit by announcing an agreement on international medical partnerships to include a proposed pairing, knowledge exchange and cooperation between St James Hospital in Ireland and Kriviy Rig City Hospital, in Ukraine.
Health Ministers are also exchanging views at the virtual summit on health workforce challenges as well as country and regional specific needs and how achievements can be scaled up and adapted into best practices in what is the first such meeting organised by Ukraine since Russia’s invasion of the country.
On Ireland’s support to Ukraine, Minister Donnelly said:
"Ireland has been unequivocal and steadfast in our support for the people and Government of Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression, and we will continue to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.
"We welcome this unique opportunity to share information with international counterparts and to further explore and advance collaboration with Ukraine, as Ireland continues to support the provision of healthcare services in Ukraine and to its displaced citizens."
In relation to workforce training and retention in Ireland, Minister Donnelly added:
"We have increased student training places in Ireland and put in place processes to expand the current workforce capacity, improve workforce experience and work-life balance, and develop an evidence-based workforce planning model.
"There has been an 18% growth in the number of healthcare workers since 2020. In addition, the overall rate of staff turnover appears to be decreasing in recent months."
The Minister also supported the Joint Statement on building resilient international health partnerships which was backed by all attendees.