EU responsibilities

Issues within the areas of responsibility of the Ministry of Health and Social Affairs are discussed in the Unions Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council.

The Council meets twice every six months in Brussels or in Luxembourg. In addition, informal ministerial meetings are arranged regularly for the ministers concerned. These meetings are held in the country holding the presidency.

The Council discusses issues concerning social policy, such as:

• Social security
• Disability
• Social inclusion
• Children and family

and within the area of health policy issues such as:

• Tobacco
• Alcohol
• Communicable diseases
• Blood, cells and tissues
• Pharmaceuticals
• Patients mobility and cooperation in matters relating to health and medical services

Participating ministers in the Council of Ministers

Participation from the Ministry depends on the items of the Council agenda.

Informal ministerial meetings

The purpose of these meetings are not to make decisions, but to give an opportunity for discussion and exchange of experience on current and long-term issues. These meetings usually take place two or three times a year by invitation from the country holding the presidency.