Urgent action needed to halt COVID-19 transmission locally - TD

The Minister for Health needs to address what she describes as "the continued high level of transmission" of COVID-19 in Cavan-Monaghan, claims a local TD.

Deputy Niamh Smyth, was concerned that figures from May 31 indicated eight new cases were confirmed in Cavan and Monaghan in total.

Deputy Smyth explained, “Medical professionals from our constituency have warned that cases have continued to grow in Counties Cavan and Monaghan.

“The latest figures show eight new cases were confirmed in Cavan and Monaghan combined, up to May 31st. The fact Cavan and Monaghan have some of the highest incidences of the disease nationwide is extremely worrying. What’s more worrying is the transmission of the disease does not seem to be abating like it is in neighbouring counties."

Leaked

The Fianna Fáil TD asserted that transparency around clusters of confirmed cases is needed.

"Recently, The Irish Times reported on the clusters in care homes which were revealed through a leaked document. It should not have to be done this way. Greater transparency around clusters will aid the general public and provide a greater awareness of this disease. This is something the minister and his officials need to look at.

She called for "continued blanket testing offered" in high risk settings.

“I offer my profound sympathies to those who are mourning the loss of loved ones because of this disease. More urgent actions are needed to prevent an unnecessary loss of life. We need continued blanket testing offered in high risk nursing homes or care home settings and offered in other settings which there are known clusters to tackle the spread of this virus in our area. This needs to be done urgently,” concluded Deputy Smyth.