ABSTRACT
In order to comprehend the context in which public health policy and priorities are decided in the Republic of Ireland it is necessary to give a brief account of the structure and organisation of the health services. Health care is provided by a mix of publicly and privately funded services; eligibility for free services is based on income. National health promotion policies are established and implemented by the Health Promotion Unit of the Department of Health, while the role of the Departments of Public Health is to cooperate with the Health Promotion Unit in advising on priorities and evaluating outcomes. There are many intersectoral boards/committees of major interest to public health on which the Department of Health is represented. The Health and Safety Authority issues licences for certain operations, reviews and develops regulations and codes of practice in relation to health and safety standards and encourages and supports education and training in occupational health.
