Brian Leddin (Limerick City, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I have four questions which I will try to get through quickly in five minutes. A colour coded alert system is being introduced as an alternative to the previously published roadmap for reopening. Does the Department have a date for its publication? What can the public expect from the system? Will there be restrictions tied to specific colours and so on?

Second, data on hospital-acquired Covid-19 infections was released at the end of June. There were 265 cases, so approximately 8% of all hospitalised Covid-19 cases. The latest data from the health protection surveillance centre has identified 8,563 Covid-19 infections in healthcare workers which is about 31% of all Covid-19 cases. As we move towards a potential second wave of Covid-19, what work is being done to reduce its spread within our healthcare facilities? Will there be a lessons learned report on hospital-acquired infections and the high levels of Covid-19 infections among healthcare workers?

Third, how is the Department ensuring there will be minimal disruption to medical services in the event of a second wave? Is the Department considering using the private hospitals as before? Finally, at its Thursday 6 August meeting, NPHET discussed alternative testing pathways for children. The standard nasopharyngeal specimen is upsetting and offputting for many children and their parents and guardians. The alternative, less precise, oral fluid or saliva specimen was discussed in recognition of this being more appropriate for children. Will the Department clarify if it has received recommendations from NPHET on alternative specimen types for testing children? As we move closer to the reopening of schools, could the Department prioritise this?