David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein)
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286. To ask the Minister for Health if consideration has been given to lifting the ongoing restrictions on the receipt of sacraments for sixth class pupils; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26112/21]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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There has been considerable progress in reducing infection levels since the peak of the wave of infection in late 2020/early 2021 because of the widespread adherence by the public to the public health measures in place, and this progress has been sustained during recent phases of reopening in April and May. While there is still a high level of infection nationally, the situation is considered reasonably stable and significant progress is being made in relation to the roll-out of our vaccination programme.   

On 28 May, Government decided to move ahead with the process of lifting restrictions further and a range of measures were eased in June. 

The Government has indicated that a further easing of measures will be considered from 5 July subject to the epidemiological situation at the time and this would include permitting confirmations to take place. Government will give consideration to whether this further easing can proceed as planned next week.

As outlined on Gov.ie, when confirmations are permitted, any related family gatherings should strictly adhere to the prevailing public health advice on household mixing, including visitors to your home and indoor and outdoor dining and any decision to schedule such ceremonies should take account of the disease situation in the local community (www.gov.ie/en/press-release/7894b-post-cabinet-statement-resilience-and-recovery-the-path-ahead/#what-you-can-do-in-july-subject-to-the-public-health-situation-at-the-time). 

While there has been scope to continue with the easing of public health measures, our approach must continue to be cautious, gradual and on a phased basis, with sufficient time between any easing of measures to assess the impact. This will be critical to ensure that our progress in controlling the virus is maintained. 

Significant progress has been made on suppressing the virus over recent months due to the huge effort of people across the country. By working together, we have saved lives and limited the impact of the disease on society in Ireland. To protect the gains of recent months we must continue to practice basic preventative behaviours and to follow public health guidelines.