Robbie Gallagher (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Everyone in the country is eagerly looking forward to the easing of level 5 restrictions next week, the reopening of retail and the return of many aspects of normal life as we know it. The Irish people deserve great credit for the huge effort and sacrifice that they have put in, and thankfully we are seeing the results of this, with the figures falling day by day. However, I have been intrigued recently with the debate around the wearing of face masks as opposed to face shields or visors. Many people out there are confused as to which is the best option. The wearing of visors is particularly commonplace in the hospitality sector, and indeed across many other sectors including offices etc. Some people have contacted me to seek guidance on which is the best face covering to wear. There has perhaps been a lack of guidance from NPHET and the HSE on this issue. It is timely, as we prepare for the reopening of as many aspects of our society as possible next week, that NPHET and the HSE provide clear guidance on the wearing of visors as opposed to face masks. Irish people, by and large, like to do the best thing all the time and it is important that there is no confusion out there. If visors are not as effective in ensuring the safety of those wearing them and those around them, then clear advice should be given in that regard.I would be grateful if the Leader would ask the HSE and NPHET to give that clear guidance in view of the reopening of the country or, hopefully, as many parts of it as possible next week.