Strengthening Sepsis Care: Minister Launches New Five-Year Action Plan

On 14 September 2026, Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD launched the Action on Sepsis Report 2026-2030, a new national framework designed to strengthen the prevention, recognition and treatment of sepsis across Ireland's healthcare system.

The report sets out a clear roadmap to improve patient outcomes through enhanced public awareness, better clinical training, faster diagnosis, timely treatment and strengthened data collection. Its recommendations aim to ensure that patients presenting with sepsis receive prompt, effective care regardless of where they access health services.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Carroll MacNeill emphasised the importance of early recognition and intervention, noting that timely treatment can make a critical difference to patient outcomes. The report reflects the collaborative efforts of healthcare professionals, policymakers, patients and advocates working together to improve sepsis care nationwide.

The Minister paid particular tribute to sepsis survivor Sophie Lanigan, whose advocacy and commitment helped ensure that the voices of patients and families remained central to the development of the report. Minister Carroll MacNeill thanked Sophie for sharing her experience and for her sustained work in raising awareness of sepsis and the importance of recognising its symptoms early.

The Minister also expressed her gratitude to sepsis survivors, families and patient representatives who contributed their insights throughout the consultation process. Their lived experience has helped shape practical recommendations that will support safer, more responsive care for patients across the country.

The launch of the Action on Sepsis Report 2026-2030 marks an important step in Ireland's ongoing commitment to patient safety and quality improvement, with implementation of the report's recommendations expected to strengthen sepsis care and improve outcomes over the coming years.