Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

My view from the expert advice we have heard today and all the evidence we have heard previously is there is no reason Ireland should not embrace antigen testing. There is overwhelming scientific evidence to show the effectiveness of antigen testing and I suggest we follow up today’s meeting with an invitation to the CMO and his team. This is a serious public interest matter which can no longer be dealt with behind closed doors. We need answers in public. Our public health officers must justify and give the reasons for their opposition to antigen. I want to see our venues and events reopening. That can be done safely with antigen and we can allow people to get back to enjoy their lives. This is one of the tools to do that.

A previous question was asked of Dr. Power and I would ask the same question of Dualchem and Mr. O’Grady. They have had no contact. They have written to all these agencies of the State. We as a committee should write to these agencies to remind them they have a presentation from Dualchem and others and they should start negotiations with them on what they have to offer.