Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER Tony Holohan has said that public guidance on wearing face coverings in certain circumstances will be issued in the next two weeks as part of efforts to tackle coronavirus in Ireland.
The National Public Health Emergency Team says there would be a need to protect supplies of healthcare grade masks if that policy was to be implemented.
Holohan last night said the use of face coverings, rather than medical-grade masks, could possibly be advised for use while on public transport or in retail settings.
Speaking on the Late Late Show last night, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar echoed Holohan’s comments and explained that the government was working on guidance about the wearing of face coverings, whose use will soon be advised in certain circumstances.
“The scientific community is divided on it… face coverings will be advised, not all the time, but in certain scenarios,” he said.
“For example, indoors in a shop, on public transport, in a crowded place or where social distancing may not be practical.”
Varadkar appeared on the chat show shortly after announcing a roadmap for a phased lifting of Covid-19 restrictions over the coming months.
The plan – which will be kept under constant review – includes a detailed plan on social gatherings, including a staggered approach to allowing people to see family members outside their household again.
From Tuesday, people will be allowed to travel up to 5km for the purposes of exercise while over 70s who have bene cocooning will be allowed to leave their homes to exercise or drive within a 5km radius. Other restrictions remain in place until 18 May, when the country will then begin to re-open in five stages, three weeks apart.
The use of face coverings is advised during phase two – set to begin on 8 June- while people are visiting the homes of over-70s and the medically vulnerable.
During the short visits, people will have to wear gloves, face coverings and maintain social distancing.
The European Centre for Disease Control and the World Health Organisation have both advised that public wearing of face coverings may reduce spread of infection by the wearer on the basis of increasing evidence that infected persons with mild or no symptoms can contribute to the spread of Covid-19.
The Taoiseach has previously said that the wearing of face coverings in public will not be compulsory if it is introduced.
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
They’d want to start by sorting out these water charges. Should be top of their agenda.
I hope they are well rested after their break. What an absolute pack of wasters. Joan Burton has been offered a position as a forwards coach on the Irish ladies Rugby team. A very accomplished No.8 in her day
Kenny can’t even manage a smile properly! What a nonsense photo though with them all trying to look hip
Who took this awful photo?
My beloved Joan’s features are all blurred. The twinkle in her eye may be dimmed in this photo, but nothing can change the warmth of her heart.
LMFAO – Well done sir! Gave me a chuckle.
Forgot they were away..
What do you mean they were but they are all ways away whats new. What we should be saying is Oh they are back
God bless them all they look shattered, maybe we should give them a permanent rest.
Maybe they will do nothing until the next concert comes along then they will be galvanised into action and be willing to change the law overnight to make Ireland a better place. I agree with one of the previous comments. They sould have been rested permanently.
CAN I JUST SAY …… We are back !!
have your say