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Covid-19 Pandemic

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2020

Wednesday, 27 May 2020

Questions (832, 849)

Darren O'Rourke

Question:

832. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if it will be made mandatory for all passengers and staff to wear face coverings on public transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7972/20]

View answer

Seán Crowe

Question:

849. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the request by trade unions for passengers and commuters to wear face masks on bus, rail and air services during the Covid-19 pandemic in view of the ongoing challenges regarding restricted space on public transport. [8256/20]

View answer

Written answers

I propose to take Questions Nos. 832 and 849 together.

On the 15th of May, An Taoiseach announced new public health guidance in relation to wearing face coverings in certain circumstances, as part of efforts to tackle coronavirus in Ireland, recommending that face coverings should be worn when using busy public transport or in enclosed indoor public areas such as retail outlets. The public health guidance recommends that face coverings should be worn as an additional hygiene measure in these circumstances; it does not impose a mandatory requirement.

The public transport sector has continuously engaged with public health to ensure the safe operation of services throughout this health emergency, and will continue working to ensure the ongoing safe provision of public transport as restrictions are lifted. The implementation of work protocols for public transport workers and providers is a matter for individual operators, in line with public health advice and the recently published 'Return to Work Safely Protocol'.

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