Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Is the measurement in microns? To what extent has evidence been produced? Has it been made available to the witnesses?

I am aware that there is an efficacy rate of almost 100%. To the extent that technology is of the quality required to remove 100% of viruses, it is possible not to have draughts, including for schools, without having draughts. We all had air conditioning in the form of draughts in our houses 40 or 50 years ago but that has changed over time. I will outline an experience I had in Europe some years ago. When I went back to my hotel, I never looked at the air conditioning and went to bed, woke up in the middle of the night gasping for breath, presuming I was suffering from various terminal illnesses that were going to change my life, and almost panicked. I had to look around in the dark for the switches to turn them on. I could not believe the difference when the tension went. It had never happened to me before. I went back to sleep and everything was rosy and perfect. As a result of my experience, I realise that there is a need for some kind of standard. This could apply to aircraft also. I see no reason in the world why it could not apply with 100% effectiveness.

Depending on the size of the equipment and the size of the building or dwelling in which it is used, it can work with 100% effectiveness and clean the air of viruses, which is the vital issue at this stage. What essential examination of the devices has taken place? What evaluation of the cost has taken place? Could Mr Jones point us in an appropriate direction in addition to having the committee taking it upon itself to talk to the Government and set up a structure that deals with this kind of thing as a matter of urgency? Incidentally, I am totally supportive of the initiative. It is a great idea.