Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising this matter. I would appreciate his privately conveying to me any examples he has of such situations. Although what he stated is correct, the HSE in its plan has given a commitment that, starting from Monday, 18 May, it will take an average of one or two days from a swab being taken for test results to be received. The overwhelming majority of people should be receiving results much more quickly than was previously the case. That is certainly the feedback I have received from people, including GPs, this week. I am sure the Deputy will be able to point me to examples of where it is not the case and I would welcome him doing so. The process turnaround times have significantly improved. The advice for anybody with symptoms is to self-isolate until the test results are forthcoming in order that he or she will not accidentally spread the virus. That would be my advice to anybody who fears they may have contracted the virus.

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