Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 December 2021
462. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth his plans for the provision of antigen tests for the early childhood care and education sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61177/21]
View answerMy Department is currently working with the HSE to finalise an antigen testing programme for early learning and childcare services.
The antigen testing programme for early learning and childcare services will be similar to the antigen testing programme that has recently been rolled out in primary schools.
Antigen tests will be provided free to children and childcare workers who are in the same group, or pod, of a confirmed case of COVID-19 in an early learning and childcare service.
Information on the antigen test programme is being finalised and will issue to service providers and parents this week.
