Minister Carroll MacNeill TD Marks World Patient Safety Day 2026

Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD marked World Patient Safety Day 2026 on 17 September by reaffirming the Government's commitment to strengthening quality, safety and transparency across Ireland's health service and ensuring that patients remain at the centre of care.

The annual event, led by the World Health Organization, highlights the importance of patient safety and encourages healthcare systems around the world to work towards safer care for all. This year's theme focused on safe care for people living with non-communicable diseases.

Marking the occasion, Minister Carroll MacNeill said:

"World Patient Safety Day reminds us of our shared commitment to putting patients at the centre of care. It reminds us to continue strengthening quality, safety and transparency across our health service. Entering hospital can be one of the most vulnerable times in a patient's life. While there is always more work to do, I am encouraged by the dedication of staff, patients and advocates across our health service to driving continued improvements in patient safety."

The Minister also highlighted the recent launch of the Action on Sepsis: Five-Year Strategy 2026-2030, Ireland's first national sepsis strategy, describing it as an important example of how patients, advocates and healthcare professionals can work together to improve safety and outcomes across the health service.

World Patient Safety Day serves as an important reminder of the collective responsibility to deliver safe, high-quality care. Through ongoing patient safety reforms, including greater transparency, stronger governance and improved clinical standards, Minister Carroll MacNeill continues to champion a healthcare system that is safer, more responsive and focused on the needs of patients and families throughout Ireland