Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I thank both witnesses for their presentations and their ongoing work. I have questions on two specific areas.

The first is on data and the second is on strategy.

On the first point, I contest that we have not been transparent enough about the data surrounding the virus. For that reason, I ask Dr. De Gascun his opinion on, for example, the model relating to the R number. Why has that not been published by now? There is a very strong case for being absolutely open and transparent about all data. There is a great amount of data being collected, processed and analysed by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre, HPSC, but, unfortunately, it is not been made publicly available. There are three areas I wish to inquire about. The model for the R number needs to be published. We need daily numbers for testing and tracing, which we have never received. Prevalence is a factor of the rate of testing. Can we have those numbers? Finally, can we have details on the location of the virus, its prevalence and the death rate relating to it? I know that all of that data is there on a small area basis. Can it be published?

The strategy adopted in this country has been to test, trace and isolate. That strategy has not ever been really operated because the testing and tracing system was always playing catch-up. The success in flattening the curve revolved around closing down society and the economy. What is the strategy now? Is there not a strong case and, in light of the probability of a second wave, a need to change the strategy, especially as we come into the winter months? It is not sufficient to stick with the test, trace and isolate strategy. Is there not a strong case to change that strategy to include the measures outlined in the document from the 1,000 scientists?