Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Dr. Holohan and his team for coming here today. The committee has held a number of hearings on this specific issue and heard compelling evidence from a wide range of witnesses. They all have recommended that we use antigen testing in order to restore international travel. The impact of not using antigen testing is being felt hard by the aviation sector in this country and more damage will be done to this critical industry if we do not embrace antigen testing in full.

Can Dr. Holohan outline the formal NPHET position on the use of the antigen test? Without doubt, other countries have embraced the use of antigen testing in full. They rolled out pilot schemes, learned from them and now are using antigen testing in international travel and across society to open up cultural events. Antigen testing is widespread yet for the last number of months we, here in Ireland, have had our head in the sand and do not have a coherent position.

I welcome that Dr. Holohan has said it would be a good idea to roll out a pilot scheme in terms of international travel. Obviously the State and NPHET, which advises the State, need to get behind the initiative, step up and give timelines. I ask Dr. Holohan to please outline when, where and how the pilot scheme will happen.

Today's meeting is our third hearing on this issue. Last year, we raised these matters in terms of antigen tests. We, on this island, all want to move forward and get back to the rhythm of normality, of which international travel plays a key part.