Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 December 2021
496. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Health if he will issue an order for FFP2-standard face masks to be made available free for all passengers using public transport while Covid-19 infection rates are at high levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62354/21]
View answerAt its meeting on 2 December, the NPHET considered the issue of the use of respirator masks by those who are at higher risk from COVID-19.
The NPHET endorsed advice from HIQA that at present the evidence does not support a population-level recommendation for the use of respirator masks (FFP2 or equivalent, or respirator masks with higher filtration efficacy) by those who are classed at higher risk from COVID-19. The NPHET noted that that this does not preclude their use at an individual level.
In its letter, the NPHET reiterated the need for continued clear communications on the appropriate use of face masks. The NPHET’s letter of 2 December is available online: www.assets.gov.ie/206406/230d346f-fd02-49fd-b672-5ec48eb7ec6c.pdf
