Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It has to be acknowledged that the serial testing programme introduced since last August has been important in terms of identifying these outbreaks early. Over 200,000 such tests have been carried out, with low positivity rates. That said, as the cases rise in the community, there will obviously be a consequential danger in terms of it spreading into nursing homes. Hence, the restriction on visitation numbers to nursing homes, which is difficult for many families but is in the best interests from a prevention of the virus spreading perspective. People will still be able to visit on compassionate grounds. Also, testing will continue with the same intensity.

On that matter, I have said repeatedly that testing capacity has increased significantly over the last while. The serial testing programme for nursing homes is one we did not have. The oversight committee met this morning. NPHET has been asked to appear again before the Covid Cabinet committee, which will meet on Friday, on any additional measures we need to take to protect nursing homes. We are very concerned about them. Obviously, they are a clear priority for all of us.

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