Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That is not my understanding. I will confirm that in writing but it is not my understanding.

In regard to private hospitals, I issued a letter through my Department to the HSE about the importance of continuity of care. One cannot just wash one's hands of one's patient. Whether it is a public or a private hospital, there is a continuity of care duty. Our doctors take that very seriously and we have issued that clarification. I am happy to take the details of that individual case but I would not like to see that arise.

On the issue of PPE, I welcome the question on how Irish companies can do more. The purpose of the website is not to say to people, "Go off to the website and be done with you". The idea is that an application form goes directly to the Office of Government Procurement under the Department of the Minister, Deputy Donohoe, which can quickly assess the offers of help. Is this something that we could quickly turn around with a business? If there is feedback, I would like to hear that as well.

We will of course reflect on the over-70s in these measures.

We are always reflecting on all of the measures. I will not reflect on them, but I will be guided by Dr. Tony Holohan's committee which will reflect on them and is constantly reflecting on them. I am conscious that 70 is not old. A lot of people over 70 have said as much to me. Many people over the age of 70 are perfectly fit and healthy and are asking why we are keeping them at home. We are doing that on the basis of medical advice, but I understand the very real challenge it poses to people's mental and physical health.

Regarding the Saolta hospital group, I have not seen that points system. I think I read it, but I have not seen it. The ethical and clinical guidelines are clear. We also have spare ICU capacity.

I do not know Dr. Lambert, but he is an expert. Nobody should ever try to silence an expert or dismiss what he or she has to say. I intend to reach out to him. I think he has written to me today, though I have not seen the letter yet. I would like to hear what he has to say. He is an expert on infectious diseases and we should be listening to him. I do not agree that there is no plan in place. I have outlined some of the measures that are already being taken. Can we do more? Yes.

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