Presumption is no substitute for testing at the correct level

Speaking to staff in nursing homes, many have said the speed of government intervention in terms of testing has not been sufficient. The initial approach of the government was that where two positive cases were found, patients with some symptoms of the virus were also presumed to have the virus. Presumption is no substitute for testing at the correct level. The government has now resorted to testing as many residents of nursing homes as possible – yielding substantial numbers of positive cases.

In addition to not testing at sufficient rates, the government has also failed to ensure adequate supply of PPE to nursing homes according to many working in these homes. Though the HSE is now delivering PPE to care facilities, the amount supplied still falls short of what is needed to protect staff and resident alike.

Every measure should be taken to ensure that our most vulnerable and our frontline heroes are protected – presumption and insufficient supply are detrimental to these efforts.

The Irish political system is radically broken

In Ireland the vast majority of elected representatives put a finger in the air to check which way the political wind is blowing. They have one eye on their leaders – seeking brownie points – and another eye keeping their seat safe. If elected reps shut up and do as they’re told, they are promoted; if they stand up for what they believe in, they are demoted. No wonder we have the political class we have. No wonder one point one billion euro is being buried in a hole under the National Children’s Hospital and that Stormont is in stalemate.

Throughout Ireland, many people are now afraid to say what they feel, many are afraid to respectfully engage on a range of different topics. Many feel there is a new censorship and a new political correctness in Ireland, that opposition to the establishment is being deleted.

Respectful opposition is not the enemy. Respectful opposition is a critical element of a functional democracy. Aontú will have the backbone to stand up, without fear, for you.