72 hr old Covid clear test from arriving passengers too little too late
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Asking arriving passengers to show clear tests up to 3 days old doesn’t go far enough.
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Compulsory testing on arrival with rigorous follow up needed.
Reacting to the news that the government will now finally require a clear Covid 19 test from arriving passengers Labour Transport spokesperson Duncan Smith said:
“For months I have called for Covid testing at our airports and ferry terminals and what we’re hearing tonight still isn’t enough.
“This is far too late and smacks of the Government chasing it’s tail. Due to the Government’s inaction over many months, we have had a totally sub standard approach and private testing facilities at Dublin Airport.
“We lost many months in which proper resources could have been trained and provided for this vital public health measure.
“Now we need to see real detail from Government and more importantly real resources to ensure this works. I hope the Minister will consider our proposals.
“Based on what has been reported it doesn’t go far enough. What is needed is testing on arrival of passengers along with rigorous follow up to ensure people self isolate and don’t develop Covid symptoms once in Ireland.
“Having testing in place at our airports and ferry terminals would give people a further level of confidence. It must now be delivered.”