Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I cannot do the issue of screening justice in 22 seconds, but perhaps another Deputy will give me an opportunity to expand on it. I will respond to the Deputy in writing and I take very seriously the point she makes. The decision to pause screening was made on public health grounds and the decision as to when it is safe to commence it will also be taken on the same grounds. The truth is that it will probably mean doing screening in a different way in terms of making sure the protections are in place. The most important message I want to get out today is that screening is for people who do not have symptoms. If people do have any symptom, then my message, as I am sure the Deputy's will be, is for them to go forward today to their health services. A plan is being worked on by the national screening service and Dr. Colm Henry, the HSE's chief clinical officer, as to when it will be safe to resume screening.

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