Seanad Supports motion calling for TRIPS Waiver

A motion calling on the Irish Government to immediately express public support for a TRIPS waiver on Covid-19 vaccines was passed tonight in the Seanad, in the process defeating a government backed amendment.
The motion also recognised that the European Commission has consistently blocked the introduction of a Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) waiver on Covid 19 vaccines and technology at the World Trade Organisations TRIPS Council.
The motion, led by the Civic Engagement Group, was signed by all four Sinn Féin Senators who all contributed to the debate. In an unprecedented move, the government decided not to press their amendment which would have deleted the call for a TRIPS waiver. That amendment was subsequently voted down, before the TRIPS waiver was adopted by all present in the Seanad Chamber.