Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent)
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553. To ask the Minister for Health if he will clarify an issue in regard to Covid-19 tests for travel into Ireland (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61173/21]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The requirements for travel are kept under regular review based on the evolving international epidemiological situation. At present, and as part of our response to the emergence of the Omicron variant, passengers travelling to Ireland require a valid test result (subject to limited exemptions). Full details on international travel policy and the types of tests accepted are published at www.gov.ie/travel.

From 5 December, a traveller with a valid recovery cert can show either:

- A negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours prior to arrival

- Or a negative antigen test result taken within 48 hours prior to arrival.

It is understood that some travellers may not be able to present evidence of a negative/not-detected RT-PCR test prior to travel due to persistently positive RT-PCR test after recovery. In these circumstances the person can present a positive RT-PCR result dated more than 11 days and less than 180 days prior to the date on which they arrive in the State. From 5 December, such individuals are required to present a negative antigen test result taken within 48 hours prior to arrival.

Imelda Munster (Louth, Sinn Fein)
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554. To ask the Minister for Health his plans for the provision of antigen tests for the early childhood care and education sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [61176/21]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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I understand that colleagues in the HSE are supporting the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, as they explore how antigen testing may be utilised further in early childcare settings.

As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.