John Lahart (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)
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363. To ask the Minister for Health when the public health advice to end the mask-wearing mandate will cease to exist. [27094/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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COVID-19 is a new disease so information on it, its features, incidence and its course are still emerging.

Whilst the current epidemiological situation in Ireland is broadly positive, my Department will continue to monitor developments and public health guidance will continue to be updated based on the most recent and available evidence.

Mask wearing is currently advised on public transport and in healthcare settings. Mask wearing is also advised based on individual risk assessment and anyone who wishes to wear a mask should not be discouraged from doing so. Individuals who are vulnerable to COVID-19 are further advised to be aware of the risk associated with activities they may choose to engage in and to take measures to optimally protect themselves. Vulnerable individuals are advised to consider wearing masks in crowded indoor settings, such as social gatherings or other activities and events.

It is important to provide clear guidance and communication to the public on the evolving disease profile and a cultural shift towards embedding individual and collective personal behaviours to mitigate against COVID-19. The current public health advice can be found at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/3361b-public-health-updates/.