Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I note Finland's and Germany's proposed introduction of PCR testing, with a period of five to seven days of self-isolation and a test on the fifth day. However, 15% of cases are still missed. In Ireland we are missing 100% of cases, if one likes, so there is significant room for improvement there.

I have a question about the technologies that exist. I know that HIQA has done a comparative analysis. It acknowledges that there were severe limitations to its analysis because of the quality of information available. There is one systematic review of rapid antigen tests, for example. I have a kit insert here from the test being used in Rome. The committee heard from representatives from Rome airport last week. The test meets the WHO criteria in respect of sensitivity and specificity. Regarding the technologies that exist there, is it feasible that we could introduce a testing regime at our ports and airports in the very near future that was either PCR or an alternative suitable comparator? It has been done elsewhere.