Covid-19 nursing homes
Deputy McDonald raised concern about outbreaks in nursing homes and whether they are prepared for a second wave. The Taoiseach pointed to serial testing, low positivity rates, and visitor restrictions to prevent spread.
Twenty-four Deputies have indicated, beginning with Deputy Mary Lou McDonald and ending with Deputy Maurice Quinlivan.
Comment on this
Today is day one of level 3 across the State and we have news of significant outbreaks of Covid-19 in nursing homes in Portlaoise and in Donegal. What happened in our nursing homes last spring was a scandal that cannot be repeated. Are our nursing homes prepared now for this second wave of Covid-19? Is there a plan and, if so, can the Taoiseach share it with us?
I heard with great concern the remarks of Dr. Dee in respect of the regional public health departments and the fact that they are desperately struggling to keep up with demand. I have raised the issue of testing and tracing with the Taoiseach time out of number and time out of number he has told me that that is properly resourced, when patently and clearly it is not. What is the plan to get this right and, above all, what is the plan to protect residents and staff in our nursing homes?
Comment on this
It has to be acknowledged that the serial testing programme introduced since last August has been important in terms of identifying these outbreaks early. Over 200,000 such tests have been carried out, with low positivity rates. That said, as the cases rise in the community, there will obviously be a consequential danger in terms of it spreading into nursing homes. Hence, the restriction on visitation numbers to nursing homes, which is difficult for many families but is in the best interests from a prevention of the virus spreading perspective. People will still be able to visit on compassionate grounds. Also, testing will continue with the same intensity.
On that matter, I have said repeatedly that testing capacity has increased significantly over the last while. The serial testing programme for nursing homes is one we did not have. The oversight committee met this morning. NPHET has been asked to appear again before the Covid Cabinet committee, which will meet on Friday, on any additional measures we need to take to protect nursing homes. We are very concerned about them. Obviously, they are a clear priority for all of us.