Free face masks ‘need to be issued’

FREE face masks should be issued by the Government, according to Deputy Marian Harkin.

Speaking in the Dáil, Deputy Harkin said: “Several countries, including Belgium, Turkey and Hong Kong are supplying free facemasks to citizens and I think Ireland should follow their example.

“Facemasks can help to prevent the spread of the virus on public transport or in enclosed spaces. “They are an important extra tool along with social distancing and handwashing to help prevent the spread of the virus and as we emerge from lockdown, their use in such situations should be further encouraged.”

Deputy Harkin said that as the lockdown eases, more and more people will need to use public transport and the current capacity constraints will render the service unworkable for many people so face masks would be necessary.