Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 January 2021
468. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Health if he will issue new and clear instructions to the public on exercise etiquette to include mandatory mask-wearing outdoors and express reminders on how 2 m should be the minimum distance, particularly in the context of the virulence of the new UK Covid-19 variant and that many are reporting feeling unsafe due to crowding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3468/21]
View answerAs I am sure you will appreciate, the evidence relating to Covid-19, and the decisions necessary to protect everybody living in Ireland from its effects is constantly evolving. The public health advice relating to Covid-19, including for face coverings, is kept under continuing review by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), by my Department and by the Government. The measures in place and the public health advice have been adapted to the changing circumstances and this will continue to be the case for the foreseeable future.
The use of face coverings by people is recommended in situations where physical distancing may not be possible, such as in crowded workplaces, places of worship and in busy or crowded outdoor spaces where there is significant congregation. Face coverings are also mandatory on public transport, including in taxis, as well as in bus and rail stations and in shops and other retail outlets. In restaurants, you should wear a face covering on your way to and from your table.
The relevant Regulations in relation to face coverings, which remain in place until 9 June, 2021, are: -
Health Act 1947 (Section 31A - Temporary Restrictions) (COVID-19) (Face Coverings in Certain Premises and Businesses) (No. 2) Regulations 2020 (S.I. No. 571 of 2020).
It is important to note that the use of face coverings should not be a substitute for other public health measures to prevent COVID-19 transmission, such as keeping a distance of 2 metres between you and other people, proper respiratory etiquette and hand hygiene, and avoiding touching your face, nose, eyes and mouth.
To support the ongoing public health guidance by the NPHET, my Department’s Press and Communications unit works closely with the HSE Communications team to raise the profile of the key public health messages amongst the general public.
The current advice in relation to face coverings is available at:- https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/coronavirus/face-masks-disposable-gloves.html and http://www.gov.ie/facecoverings/
Statutory Instruments related to the Covid-19 pandemic are available here:- https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/1f150-view-statutory-instruments-related-to-the-covid-19-pandemic/
