Minister Could, But Wont Enforce Self Isolation For Tourists from Covid-19 Hotspots
Aontú Leader & Meath West TD Peadar Tóibín has called upon the Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly to utilise his powers per legislation to predicate and enforce regulating mandating mandatory self-isolation from those arriving in Ireland from Covid-19 Hotspots.
“The Minister was afforded additional powers in relation to self-isolation and measures designed to contain the spread of Covid-19. With the reproduction rate rising, and fears of a Covid-19 spike on these shores, it is imperative that the Minister act swiftly to preclude Covid-19 cases being imported into the country once again. The government refused to shut down flights from northern Italy at the start of the Pandemic which led to the rapid spread of the disease in Ireland. There are plenty of government-rented properties where incoming visitors could isolate within. Yet here we are again with a new government refusing to act.
“According to Section 10 of the Health Act , which amends Section 31 of the Health Act , the Minister for Health is empowered to enforce any such restrictions as necessary to safeguard the public health from safeguards arising from Covid-19. It is fully within Stephen Donnelly’s power to step in and take precautionary measures to prevent a spike in Coronavirus cases.”
“This is not about jeopardising the tourist industry, or demonising foreigners who wish to visit our shores. This is about taking the necessary measures to ensure that we do not need another lockdown, that lives our saved and that normality can be restored. A self-isolation order for those coming into the country is simply asking them to be part of the national effort to combat Covid-19 whilst they visit our shores. Let’s not undo the sacrifices we have made with recklessness. We have sacrificed so much to flatten the curve – let’s not force ourselves to make more.”
