Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We all share these concerns and it is important to remind everybody that, while we are still waiting for everybody to be vaccinated, we have to follow the protocols and public health advice from all the authorities. These protocols were originally designed when there was no vaccine and no roll-out. They have been updated on two occasions since then to reflect the benefits of the vaccination programme. We know that by July approximately 60% of our population will have received their second vaccine. The majority will be in that place come September. We can see the benefits of the vaccination roll-out but we have to remind everybody in the coming weeks and months of this cautious reopening to follow the advice, make sure we keep the virus under control and protect everybody. That is why the protocols are there and why everybody follows them. They are monitored by all the relevant agencies. Employees who have concerns can contact the HSA and their queries are dealt with. We monitor that as well.

If the Deputy has any concerns, I am happy to engage with him directly on them. Employees in general are complimentary of their employers, their organisations and implementing these rules.

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