Alan Kelly (Tipperary, Labour) | Oireachtas source

Free Covid PCR tests for people are about to be axed. They will not be offered to members of the public under the age of 55, those who are boosted and do not fall into certain categories. This is coming into force next week, as I understand it. It means that people will have to pay between €70 and €90 for a private PCR test, which is extortionate. For many people, this will be a cost that they cannot afford. There were 3,294 positive PCR test results yesterday alone, without even factoring in negative results. Just adding up the cost of yesterday's positive test results, that would yield €300,000 on an average price, or nearly €2 million a week. That will absolutely disincentivise people who need tested from getting tested. Anybody who is vulnerable out there will certainly not do it because they will not be able to afford it. It is a real cost of living issue. Does the Government have any provision for those who cannot afford a private test to get one done publically? I ask the Taoiseach to reconsider the issue for those who will not be able to afford the cost of €70 to €90.

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