NPHET ‘hasn’t done their job properly’ when it comes to COVID-19 mitigation measures that aren’t restrictions, according to Professor Anthony Staines.
He says NPHET has been “consistently behind” other countries when it comes to measures such as antigen testing and face masks.
However, he says a phased reopening would be the “sensible approach” given the situation we currently find ourselves in.
The DCU professor was speaking as attention turns to the easing of restrictions such as the 8pm curfew for indoor events and the hospitality sector.
There’s been cautious optimism in recent days that Ireland has reached the peak of the Omicron wave, with daily case numbers gradually decreasing.
Overall hospital figures have remained high, but not at the same level seen during last January’s surge in COVID-19 cases.
ICU numbers, however, have remained relatively stable since Christmas.
NPHET’s due to meet this week, with Government leaders expressing optimism that some of the current restrictions can soon be eased.
Tánaiste Leo Varadkar yesterday told RTÉ yesterday that the aim is to have a quicker and more ambitious reopening than last year, but it would not happen at a “risky or reckless pace”.
On Newstalk Breakfast, Professor Staines – Professor of Health Systems and Public Health at DCU – said a phased reopening is the “best strategy” in the current situation.
However, he said it’s “very unfortunate” we’ve ended up in a situation where restrictions needed to be reimposed in the first place.
Credit to : Newstalk