Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats)
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469. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence if Defence Forces personnel sent abroad on a training course have to self-isolate for 14 days on return; if the medical officer can seek an exemption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22188/20]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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There is a requirement to ensure that all Defence Forces personnel are provided with a safe working environment. It is also a requirement of Defence Forces personnel to adhere to all current HSE guidelines that are in place.

All Defence Forces personnel returning to Ireland from educational or training courses that took place abroad are required to comply with the mandatory national public health measures in place at the time of their return. Currently these measures include restricting their movement for 14 days upon arrival back into the country. These measures are complied with.

Jennifer Whitmore (Wicklow, Social Democrats)
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470. To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence the Defence Forces policy on wearing masks within barracks; if guidelines on mask wearing have been issued to all offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22189/20]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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It is the policy of the Defence Forces to provide a safe working and living environment for Defence Forces personnel. There is a requirement to ensure that all Defence Forces personnel are cared for in a practical way, in line with HSE guidelines, whilst ensuring that Defence Forces capabilities are maintained.

The Defence Forces Risk Manager provided written guidance on the wearing of Defence Forces face masks, for both reusable and disposable masks, in accordance with HSE guidelines.

The military authorities have advised that correspondence outlining this guidance has been distributed to all formations and units, and the chain of command have been briefed on these.

A COVID-19 safety awareness brief, which deals with the wearing of masks, has been rolled out across the Defence Forces by the Health and Safety network and by the unit safety officers.

I am satisfied that the official guidelines have been communicated to Defence Forces personnel.