Paul McAuliffe (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Yesterday, the Taoiseach said that Ireland was compliant with WHO guidelines and in line with other EU countries with regard to the use of face masks. Walking around the city, however, one would have to wonder if that is true. It is clear that the key challenge in respect of Covid-19 transmission relates to those at the presymptomatic stage. We heard this morning from Dr. Nabarro that masks can play an important role as part of a package of measures. The current messaging on this matter has been confusing. Members of the public are calling their Deputies and asking whether one is to wear a medical mask or a face covering, when one wears one and when the other, and how one stores and carries masks. The wearing of face masks was recommended by NPHET more than six weeks ago but now, in mid-June, very few people are wearing them. We urgently need a publicity campaign to promote the correct use of face masks. We do not need the enforcement measures that have been introduced in other countries. Irish people have proven that they are more than willing to follow clear guidelines. I urge the Minister to implement a campaign to communicate a clear message with regard to the use of face masks.

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