Minister For Health Simon Harris
As of Monday, the country will enter the first of a number of phases that will see the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. Minister For Health Simon Harris joined Sarina on Saturday's Plan B to tell us more.
The Minister began by saying he is both nervous and excited about the easing of restrictions, and that the work we put in is still crucial to their success.
Listen to the interview here:
He clarified that 4 people from different households will be able to meet outside, as long as they are within their 5km radius.
Saturday morning - hello from @roinnslainte - a few updates and thoughts #Covid19 #coronavirus #Stayhome #HoldFirm https://t.co/PsVanGUJRo
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) May 16, 2020
Monday May 18th will also see the return to work for some outdoor workers - such as those in construction and landscaping - and the opening of garden centres, hardware stores and a number of other retail outlets.
Some sports and recreational activities will also be able to resume from then, but only within small groups.
Here is NPHET's advice to Government on easing restrictions accepted by Cabinet. This is not without risk. But I have great faith in the Irish people and what they can acheive. Continue to stay safe, stay home and protect each other. #holdfirm #COVIDー19 pic.twitter.com/CbSKtgPKiw
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) May 15, 2020
Many the listener questions that came in were around the subject of masks. Minister Harris confirmed that the advice of the Chief Medical Officer is that they may be useful in some circumstances, such as in enclosed spaces like supermarkets.
The Government has issued two videos showing how you can make your own mask at home and how to wear it safely.
Here is a guide to making a face covering.
It is advised to wear one where social distancing is not possible.
Face coverings are NOT a replacement for washing hands well & often.
Keep 2m from others when you are outside your home. #COVID19 pic.twitter.com/beyB7IOR65
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) May 15, 2020
Here’s how to properly wear and remove a face covering. Please share! It’s important if you do this you do it right. It is not mandatory- just another helpful thing you can do. Not recommended for under 13 year olds #Covid19 pic.twitter.com/bV9096Z9mL
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) May 15, 2020
On seeing our loved ones, Minister Harris says it is vital we stick to the Kilometre guidelines with seeing others as it stop the spread of the virus.
The Minister is missing his own Nana and can't wait to see her but also doesn't want to make her ill.
He stressed that these "awful restrictions" are in place to keep us safe and protect us all from the virus.
1) I am an optimist & I really like highlighting progress the Irish people have made against #Covid19 but I have to say this - any narrative emerging that this battle is won needs to be dismissed. Progress is clear but fragile. The virus is here, it’s infectious & it can be fatal
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) May 14, 2020
Another hot topic with our listeners is around large events and weddings, with many looking for clarity on what numbers will be allowed and when.
Minister Harris said there are currently talks under way to put together a clear list of guidelines on this matter.
He had to break it to his own friend, who's he's groomsman for, that his wedding and stag would not be going ahead.
We will get through this. are doing it for each other. are doing it for family. are doing it for friends. We are staying apart because we care & because we know better days are in front of us. Let’s make this week count. Let’s weaken this awful virus further #Covid19 pic.twitter.com/OEuLOmrCtf
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) May 11, 2020
The Minister's main message was that what we are doing is working and we have prevented a must worse situation. However, we now have the responsibility to continue this work.
Once we continue to adhere to the guidelines we can build on the easing of restrictions over the next few weeks.
He also noted this is a time when we're all fragile and it's important to be kind to one another.
Such beautiful human kindness. People are so fundamentally decent & we are seeing the best of people during the worst of times. Well done & thank you ❤️ https://t.co/NUUdo174NL
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) May 11, 2020
The Minister also spoke about health screenings and when we can expect them to start again. However, he advised anyone experiencing symptoms to still seek medical care.
To hear Sarina's full chat with Minister For Health Simon Harris, click the Listen button on this page.
