Jennifer Murnane O'Connor (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I too thank the Minister and the Minister of State for their hard work. I also commend the HSE on the vaccination roll-out, which is so important. It was announced today that the portal would be open tomorrow for the 60 to 64 age group. That is so important. I have had many queries about the HSE's number, which is really good, because some people do not want to use the portal. I welcome that. The vaccination centre at Carlow IT opened yesterday, which was very welcome and important. Communication is the key here. That is something we need to work on.

The work to vaccinate those living with disabilities in residential services and those utilising day services is ongoing and welcome, but we need to complete the programme. St. Dymphna's is another vaccination centre in Carlow that is doing great work.

I accept what the Minister said about carers. I know he is working with NIAC on that and on vaccinating gardaí and teachers. There was such confusion this week about religious services. I am delighted that the Minister answered the question in that regard and that he is working on it. That is so important.

What is the position regarding fully vaccinated people being able to avoid hotel quarantine? What vaccines are accepted? It is important to know that. We are all working so hard, including the Minister, Deputy Stephen Donnelly, and the Minister of State, Deputy Butler, and the HSE. It is important that we get the message out there that things are going to be all right. It is taking time, but communication is the key, in particular now that we are opening up the vaccination centres. If something happens to prevent a person getting his or her vaccination on a given day, could the Minister look at the communication in that regard? That is the most important issue going forward.

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