Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 11 November 2020
31. Deputy Verona Murphy asked the Taoiseach the quarantine rules that apply to members of the Government and officials on returning from attending events abroad; if all members of delegations returning from such visits are automatically tested for Covid-19 on arrival; the applicable period of self-isolation that applies; the processes for ensuring compliance with the relevant rules; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35733/20]
View answerGiven the current domestic and international situation regarding Covid19, Government advice remains not to travel abroad unless it is essential to do so.
In order to ensure that Ireland is represented effectively, it is acknowledged that it is sometimes necessary for office-holders to travel overseas to participate in and to represent Ireland at international meetings.
I travelled to meetings of the European Council in Brussels in July and in October. On each occasion, strict protocols applied both throughout the trip and at the meeting. The delegation accompanying me was kept to the absolute minimum necessary, and observed relevant protocols regarding social distancing, face coverings and hygiene at all times.
The organisers of the meetings applied significant restrictions in the Europa Building throughout, limiting numbers with access to the building and monitoring and ensuring social distancing.
Staff who travelled with me received diagnostic testing immediately on return, and a repeat test seven days later. They also restricted their movements to the extent possible given their official duties.
Similar arrangements were in place for other members of the Government when they had to travel to represent Ireland at international meetings.
From Monday 9 November, Ireland is implementing the new EU ‘traffic lights’ approach to travel, which applies to countries in the EU / EEA (+ UK).
In general, passengers arriving into Ireland from another country are requested to restrict their movements for 14 days.
In line with the EU traffic lights approach, travellers from regions designated ‘green’ or those arriving from Northern Ireland, are not asked to restrict their movements.
In addition, the general request to restrict movement for 14 days does not apply to certain defined categories, including travellers with an essential function or need as set out in paragraph 19 of the EU Council Recommendation, while they are carrying out that function or need.
Furthermore, Irish residents who travel overseas for an essential purpose, and restrict their movements apart from that purpose while overseas, will not be advised to restrict their movement on return.
