Written answers

Wednesday, 2 February 2022

Photo of Mattie McGrathMattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent)
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148. To ask the Minister for Health the position with regard to mask wearing in churches; if masks are still required; the relevant statutory instrument specifically citing churches as having a requirement for mask wearing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5299/22]

Photo of Stephen DonnellyStephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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While the majority of public health measures have been lifted, the Government announced that the requirements for mask wearing in all settings where currently regulated for under Statutory Instrument should be retained until February 28 based on public health advice. This includes public transport, taxis and at stations/airports/ports; retail premises and a range of other indoor premises/facilities; and workers in customer facing and food preparation roles in hospitality. The details of the Regulations can be accessed here - www.gov.ie/en/publication/04388-informal-consolidation-of-covid-19-temporary-restrictions-regulations/.

As the Deputy may be aware, the wearing of masks in churches was never a requirement under Statutory Instrument but was instead public health advice similar to that applying to all indoor public spaces.

As part of its advice to Government on the easing of public health measures, the NPHET advised that sector specific measures to ensure a safe environment including in relation to the promotion of rapid self-isolation when symptomatic, appropriate use of face masks, physical distancing, hand and respiratory hygiene, ventilation and signage must remain critical components of our collective response to COVID-19. The NPHET also advised that the continued wearing of masks, practicing of physical distancing and avoidance of crowded environments based on individual risk assessment, along with adherence to basic hand and respiratory hygiene will remain important. It will be a matter for sectors, organisations, premises and individuals to determine the most appropriate arrangements.

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