Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would love to see antigen testing used. I will defer to our scientists and medical experts on this, but we have already seen some universities use their own initiative in relation to it. Antigen testing is part of our national toolkit in the fight against Covid. In my view, based on conversations I have had with people more knowledgeable than I am, a college environment could be a very appropriate place to see it rolled out. The Government is awaiting a report to the National Public Health Emergency Team, NPHET, on antigen testing. I would certainly be very happy to volunteer our sector to participate for the reasons stated by the Deputy.

On the broader issue, I am very conscious that I have to be honest with students. The public health advice is very clear. At level 4 and level 5, the overwhelming majority of college remains online. Students doing apprenticeships, practicals and laboratory work and vulnerable learners and the like can come in but the overwhelming majority of college work stays online. We have a published plan for the safe reopening and safe return to college but it is contingent on the behaviour of the virus.

We meet every Friday with all our university stakeholders and student unions. We are planning for the new academic year. I expect we will see much more on-site attendance in September and, hopefully, a return to something that looks and feels a bit more normal in the new college year. We will provide an update to students and staff early this summer as to what they can expect September to look like.