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The Minister for European Affairs, Thomas Byrne T.D., joined a number of Ministerial colleagues from EU and EEA countries this morning for informal discussions relating to implementation of the new EU Digital COVID Certificate. The discussions form part of ongoing informal efforts among EU countries to improve coordination in relation to rollout of the Digital COVID Certificate, with a particular emphasis on such issues as vaccines, testing and certification for nationals from third countries. The discussions were convened by the French Minister for Health and Solidarity, Olivier Veran, and the French Minister for European Affairs, Clément Beaune.

Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly, T.D., also participated on behalf of Ireland. Minister Byrne said: “The Taoiseach announced last Friday that Ireland intends to implement the EU Digital COVID Certificate arrangements from 19 July and all possible steps are accordingly being taken across government to prepare for this important development in opening up our society and facilitating the safe resumption of international travel. Close coordination with our EU and international partners is vital in this regard and I was delighted to participate, alongside Minister Donnelly, in this morning’s useful discussions.”ENDS Press Office 1 June 2021