I wish to establish the Government's position in relation to rapid antigen testing. It is abundantly clear, from information that was presented to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport and Communications, that there is a role for antigen testing to play in the reopening of our economy and society and in keeping it open. I want to establish what the Government's position is in relation to rapid antigen testing.

I have proposed to the Taoiseach and his office a pilot reopening of a nightclub in Ennis. I would like the Taoiseach or his officials to make contact with me in relation to that matter.

I thank the Deputy for raising the issue. The Government is supportive of the deployment of antigen testing as an additional tool to existing tools to deal with Covid-19. Yesterday, the Government approved formally the establishment of a group chaired by Professor Mary Horgan in respect of giving guidance and advice to different sectors within the Government, different Departments and agencies, and different sectors in society, as to the best way to deploy and roll out antigen testing. It is already in place in meat plants, for example. It is also being used in some healthcare settings by the HSE. The Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science has developed a pilot programme in respect of third level education in anticipation of the autumn academic period. That is the Government's position right now.

It is an additional tool. It is not a replacement of any existing tool. It is part of a wide suite of measures that can be used.