Taoiseach Micheál Martin pledges €21.6 million in Irish funding at Global Vaccine Summit

Taoiseach Micheál Martin joined world leaders at today’s Global Summit for Health and Prosperity through Immunisation, co-hosted by the European Union, the Gates Foundation, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

Announcing a 20% increase in Irish funding to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance for the period 2026-2030, the Taoiseach said:

“Vaccines have utterly transformed health outcomes across the world. Evidence from the World Health Organisation shows that vaccination is one of the best health investments that money can buy and one of the most impactful tools that we have available to us. My announcement today of a further €21.6 million, a 20% increase in our funding for Gavi, demonstrates Ireland’s commitment to the transformative use of vaccines.”

Highlighting Ireland’s commitment to Official Development Assistance, Tánaiste Simon Harris added:

“The work of Irish Aid is guided by the principle of reaching the furthest behind first. At a time of so many global challenges, Ireland is proud to increase its support to the vital work of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. This support from Ireland will help keep people safe and healthy, protecting them from diseases and illnesses that continue to cost too many lives.”

This global summit aims to raise at least US $9 billion to support Gavi’s work to provide equitable access to vaccines, immunising the world’s poorest children and advancing global health security. Over the 2026-2030 period, Gavi aims to immunise a further 500 million children, save over 8 million lives and protect against up to 150 disease outbreaks.

In advance of the summit, the Taoiseach met with Chair of the Gates Foundation, Mr. Bill Gates, to discuss a shared commitment to development cooperation and alignment of priorities on gender equality, agriculture, nutrition and global health, including vaccinations.