Restrictions could ease by Christmas, says minister
MINISTER for Health Stephen Donnelly has said that it is vital to act now as Covid-19 has continued to spread, resulting in a rise in admissions to hospitals and ICU.
His remarks followed the announcement made by Taoiseach Micheál Martin on Monday night that the country will go into Level 5 restrictions for a period of six weeks.
‘ The incidences of Covid in Wicklow have thankfully remained mostly below the national average but they are rising,’ said Mr Donnelly.
‘In the space of just a couple of weeks we have seen rates in some parts of the county more than double and even treble.
‘And that’s why we had to go to Level 5 now so we can preempt a surge and protect our priorities which are keeping schools and childcare open, keeping non Covid health services going as well as the protection of the most vulnerable in our community.’
Restrictions include the closure of non-essential retail.
The minister said that he fully understands ‘ the immense pressure local businesses are
under.
‘Which is why additional supports such as changes to the PUP have been put in place.
‘We’ve also ensured sport remains for children and introduced support bubbles for people living on their own as a means to protect peoples’ mental health.
‘ There’s no point pretending this is easy but we have to get the virus under control,’ he said.
‘If we work together and follow the public health advice there’s every chance we will be able to have an easing of restrictions before Christmas.’