theirishtimes--2020-03-24--Policing during coronavirus: ‘Morale has never been higher’

A vast reorganisation of much of An Garda Síochána in response to the spread of Covid-19 means Garda members are more likely than anyone , with the possible exception of healthcare workers , to fall ill .
When the scale of the crisis became clear at the start of March , Garda management introduced major changes that would ordinarily take many months to implement .
In addition to the creation of a full-time public order unit for Dublin , a large proportion of the force was tasked with ensuring the welfare of vulnerable and elderly people in the community .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ collecting groceries and medication or just chatting to an elderly resident on the doorstep for a few minutes .
There was some muted resistance to this , with members arguing there were many local volunteers willing to do such jobs , allowing gardaí to get on with police work .
But , for the most part , members were eager to help in any way they could .
“ We didn ’ t have to be told what to do .
We all just got into our cars , and set off visiting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who we should call to , ” a Tipperary garda said .
“ We all come from communities and we all felt a sense of caring for our people , and a duty to do whatever we could , no matter how simple to help.
” A garda in the Border region said members were “ a bit apprehensive ” about their own safety especially due to shortages of Personal Protective Equipment ( PPE ) .
But , he added , morale has never been higher .
“ Everybody is behind everybody .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
They understand there is a crisis , that we will be asked to step out of our comfort zone.
” The message from Garda Headquarters is two-fold : gardaí are there to help the vulnerable but normal police work will continue .
Despite the restructuring , detective and specialist units are still doing their regular jobs .
This includes anti-gangland , drugs , cybercrime , and domestic and sexual assault work .
“ None of them have been put back into uniform or anything like that , ” a spokesman said .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been diagnosed with Covid-19 .
Management is not releasing the exact number but insist infections have not affected operational capability .
To mitigate the spread of the virus , a new 12 hours on , 12 hours off roster has been introduced , meaning there is no overlap between shifts .
The practice of having some gardaí working across two units has also been abolished .
“ People are buddied up and working as little islands so they are not contaminating other units , ” the spokesman said .
Many members have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system and hope it will be retained after the crisis .
While many gardaí were dismayed by the large numbers of people congregating in outdoor spaces over the weekend in defiance of HSE guidelines , they have also been comforted by the social solidarity on show .
They are also relieved to see no significant rise in public order incidents and , according to the Garda Press Office , “ absolutely no reports of looting ” .
Despite reports of burglars targeting unoccupied pubs , the Garda said it had not seen an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ monitoring the situation .
Legislation passed last week will give the Garda broad new emergency powers to shut down events and locations and detain people for public health reasons .
Rank and file gardaí have yet to be briefed on the extent of these powers or how they should be used but senior sources say they will be deployed only as a last resort .
Nonetheless , some gardaí are worried about the rapid introduction of such extensive powers .
“ Going in a house and shutting down a party , these are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comfort zone .
There ’ s some anxiety about that , ” said a Cavan garda .
For now , according to management , the focus is on maintaining “ high visibility policing ” to reassure people and to gently urge them to follow social distancing guidelines .
“ We don ’ t have power to enforce social distancing , ” the spokesman said .
“ It ’ s a request .
It ’ s a social responsibility .
”

With coronavirus at large, keeping your car clean and shiny on the outside no longer cuts it. You must also ensure that frequently touched components - inside and out - are kept scrupulously clean and disinfected. Video: John Cassidy
A vast reorganisation of much of An Garda Síochána in response to the spread of Covid-19 means Garda members are more likely than anyone, with the possible exception of healthcare workers, to fall ill.
When the scale of the crisis became clear at the start of March, Garda management introduced major changes that would ordinarily take many months to implement.
In addition to the creation of a full-time public order unit for Dublin, a large proportion of the force was tasked with ensuring the welfare of vulnerable and elderly people in the community. This involves doing such mundane tasks as collecting groceries and medication or just chatting to an elderly resident on the doorstep for a few minutes.
There was some muted resistance to this, with members arguing there were many local volunteers willing to do such jobs, allowing gardaí to get on with police work. But, for the most part, members were eager to help in any way they could.
READ MORE
"We didn't have to be told what to do. We all just got into our cars, and set off visiting chemists and accumulating names of vulnerable people who we should call to," a Tipperary garda said.
“We all come from communities and we all felt a sense of caring for our people, and a duty to do whatever we could, no matter how simple to help.”
A garda in the Border region said members were “a bit apprehensive” about their own safety especially due to shortages of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
But, he added, morale has never been higher. “Everybody is behind everybody. The members are ready to step up. They understand there is a crisis, that we will be asked to step out of our comfort zone.”
The message from Garda Headquarters is two-fold: gardaí are there to help the vulnerable but normal police work will continue. Despite the restructuring, detective and specialist units are still doing their regular jobs. This includes anti-gangland, drugs, cybercrime, and domestic and sexual assault work.
“None of them have been put back into uniform or anything like that,” a spokesman said.
So far, a handful of gardaí have been diagnosed with Covid-19. Management is not releasing the exact number but insist infections have not affected operational capability.
New rosters
To mitigate the spread of the virus, a new 12 hours on, 12 hours off roster has been introduced, meaning there is no overlap between shifts. The practice of having some gardaí working across two units has also been abolished. “People are buddied up and working as little islands so they are not contaminating other units,” the spokesman said.
Many members have welcomed the predictability of the new shift system and hope it will be retained after the crisis.
While many gardaí were dismayed by the large numbers of people congregating in outdoor spaces over the weekend in defiance of HSE guidelines, they have also been comforted by the social solidarity on show.
They are also relieved to see no significant rise in public order incidents and, according to the Garda Press Office, “absolutely no reports of looting”.
Despite reports of burglars targeting unoccupied pubs, the Garda said it had not seen an uptick in such incidents but it was monitoring the situation.
Legislation passed last week will give the Garda broad new emergency powers to shut down events and locations and detain people for public health reasons.
Rank and file gardaí have yet to be briefed on the extent of these powers or how they should be used but senior sources say they will be deployed only as a last resort.
Nonetheless, some gardaí are worried about the rapid introduction of such extensive powers. “Going in a house and shutting down a party, these are draconian measures that are well outside our comfort zone. There’s some anxiety about that,” said a Cavan garda.
For now, according to management, the focus is on maintaining “high visibility policing” to reassure people and to gently urge them to follow social distancing guidelines.
“We don’t have power to enforce social distancing,” the spokesman said. “It’s a request. It’s a social responsibility.”


theirishtimes--2020-03-24--A common enemy: Belfast unites in fighting coronavirus

Burdened by the Troubles and deprivation , Upper Springfield in nationalist west Belfast , including Ballymurphy and Turf Lodge , has rarely trusted authority .
“ Many people would have a suspicion of orders coming from above .
It ’ s what we refer to as a healthy disrespect for law and order here , ” say Ciarán Mac Giolla Bhéin .
However , today a disrespect for authority can be dangerous to life when it comes to heeding public health warnings to stem coronavirus .
Responding to the crisis , residents have set up Ar Scáth a Chéile , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ between neighbours .
The name of the group comes from an Irish proverb meaning that we all live in each other ’ s shadow .
“ We have a very rich history of self-organising , not sitting back and waiting on those in authority and those in power to come to our rescue .
More often than not in our own history , that has never really happened , ” Mr Mac Giolla Bhéin said .
With links to GAA clubs and other social groups in Springfield , Ar Scáth a Chéile quickly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about health and social distancing .
“ Our concern [ was ] that the very important messages around social isolation and people keeping their distance probably weren ’ t reaching and permeating through the community in the way that they should .
We needed to deliver this message ourselves , and make sure it ’ s heard right across the board , ” he said .
The 100-strong group is adopting a “ holistic ” approach , according to Ellen Cahill .
Parents are sharing recordings of themselves reading bedtime stories , along @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a family art competition is encouraging people to decorate their windows .
So far , 500 pictures have been entered , with most houses in the area involved .
“ Even though people were isolated , people said they felt they were a part of something , ” said Ms Cahill .
Cliodhna Tolan was sitting at home taking care of her daughter ( 3 ) and sister ( 4 ) who were bored , when she saw the family art competition announced on a local Facebook page .
“ It gave them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to wash their hands properly , ” she said .
“ My neighbour put her pictures on her windows as I was doing mine , and we were waving at each other .
It lifted the spirit of the community , ” Ms Tolan said .
The model may be followed elsewhere in Belfast .
Over the past fortnight , players and volunteers from local football club , St James Swift , have made lists of all those in the area who may need help in the weeks ahead .
“ We have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t go out of the house , and who don ’ t have family .
We call on their houses once a week , volunteers leave their phone numbers , prepare to get them gas , food , electricity , ” said Joseph McCall , the club ’ s manager .
Lying on an interface ( where nationalist and unionist areas meet ) , St James Swift , which was set up in 2010 to help tackle social deprivation , has responded to calls for help across the community divide , including the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We open our doors to anyone , it doesn ’ t matter creed , colour or religion .
At times of need , we have to look after people , ” Mr McCall said .
Over in Ardcarn in unionist east Belfast , the local community are also making preparations for what is to come .
So far , 12 volunteers in Ardcarn are helping Gareth Wright , who leads the local residents ' committee .
“ We will introduce a nightly call to each elderly resident in our community .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ are going , and to establish their needs , ” he said .
“ They are so dedicated , are really putting themselves out there , right on the frontline , ” he added .
Councillor John Kyle of the Progressive Unionist Party who has been active as a politician and GP in east Belfast for decades , said local churches , resident groups , even restorative justice organisations were coming together .
However , street level action is happening more in economically deprived areas than in better off parts of the city @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a cushion to protect themselves ” , he said .
Paramilitary organisations still exist in east Belfast .
Some are “ self-serving criminal gangs ” , according to Mr Kyle .
Others are on “ an arc of transformation ” .
“ Those groups are making themselves available and are joining with other churches and groups to support the community , ” he said .
Linda Ervine heads Turas , an Irish language group that “ aims to connect people from Protestant communities to their own history with the Irish language ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ classes , which normally take place at the East Belfast Mission on the Newtownards Road .
Last Monday , the classes were stopped .
Now , though , Turas is moving online with a Saturday morning class through Skype : “ There is real enthusiasm .
The learners are so glad that somebody is going to be keeping in contact with them , that they are going to be able to continue with their learning .
That ’ s very heart-warming for us .
We might have to do things in a different @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to help , ” she said .
Mervyn Gibson , grand secretary of the Orange Order and Presbyterian minister active in east Belfast , also speaks of actions by the community .
“ Many Orange lodges , bands , sports groups , football teams are all becoming involved in collecting groceries , delivering medicines , ” he said .
“ There is a community spirit emerging .
And that is beyond the normal religious and political divides in Northern Ireland .
We need to park our differences and look after our community – @ @ @ @ @

Burdened by the Troubles and deprivation, Upper Springfield in nationalist west Belfast, including Ballymurphy and Turf Lodge, has rarely trusted authority.
“Many people would have a suspicion of orders coming from above. It’s what we refer to as a healthy disrespect for law and order here,” say Ciarán Mac Giolla Bhéin.
However, today a disrespect for authority can be dangerous to life when it comes to heeding public health warnings to stem coronavirus.
20 healthcare workers from the Belfast Respiratory Team have released a video calling on people to stay at home to help limit the spread of coronavirus. Video: Belfast Health and Social Care Trust/Reuters
Responding to the crisis, residents have set up Ar Scáth a Chéile, a community group offering advice and guidance between neighbours. The name of the group comes from an Irish proverb meaning that we all live in each other’s shadow.
READ MORE
“We have a very rich history of self-organising, not sitting back and waiting on those in authority and those in power to come to our rescue. More often than not in our own history, that has never really happened,” Mr Mac Giolla Bhéin said.
With links to GAA clubs and other social groups in Springfield, Ar Scáth a Chéile quickly realised it needed to amplify the messages about health and social distancing.
“Our concern [was] that the very important messages around social isolation and people keeping their distance probably weren’t reaching and permeating through the community in the way that they should. We needed to deliver this message ourselves, and make sure it’s heard right across the board,” he said.
Even though people were isolated, people said they felt they were a part of something
The 100-strong group is adopting a "holistic" approach, according to Ellen Cahill. Parents are sharing recordings of themselves reading bedtime stories, along with educational and exercise videos, while a family art competition is encouraging people to decorate their windows.
Ellen Cahill, a community group organiser in the Ballymurphy estate, Belfast, with her daughter Aoibhe and some of the pictures the local children have drawn to place in the front windows of their houses to brighten up their neighbourhood. Photograph: Stephen Davison
So far, 500 pictures have been entered, with most houses in the area involved. “Even though people were isolated, people said they felt they were a part of something,” said Ms Cahill.
Cliodhna Tolan was sitting at home taking care of her daughter (3) and sister (4) who were bored, when she saw the family art competition announced on a local Facebook page. "It gave them a bit of an understanding about having to wash their hands properly," she said.
Cliodhna Tolan and her daughter Zaira, who entered a drawing competition to brighten up their neighbourhood in the Upper Springfield area of Belfast. Photograph: Stephen Davison
“My neighbour put her pictures on her windows as I was doing mine, and we were waving at each other. It lifted the spirit of the community,” Ms Tolan said. The model may be followed elsewhere in Belfast.
Over the past fortnight, players and volunteers from local football club, St James Swift, have made lists of all those in the area who may need help in the weeks ahead.
We will introduce a nightly call to each elderly resident in our community. A brief chat to see how things are going
“We have a list of pensioners who can’t go out of the house, and who don’t have family. We call on their houses once a week, volunteers leave their phone numbers, prepare to get them gas, food, electricity,” said Joseph McCall, the club’s manager.
Community divide
Lying on an interface (where nationalist and unionist areas meet), St James Swift, which was set up in 2010 to help tackle social deprivation, has responded to calls for help across the community divide, including the loyalist areas of Shankill and Tigers Bay.
“We open our doors to anyone, it doesn’t matter creed, colour or religion. At times of need, we have to look after people,” Mr McCall said.
Over in Ardcarn in unionist east Belfast, the local community are also making preparations for what is to come.
From left, Gareth Wright, and fellow members William Parke, Jennie Rice, Ross Woods, Phil Francey, Ernie Rikauskas and Philip Fitzpatrick of the Ardcarn Local Residents’ Group in east Belfast before doing a leaflet drop about coronvirus precautions in the estate. Photograph: Stephen Davison
So far, 12 volunteers in Ardcarn are helping Gareth Wright, who leads the local residents' committee. "We will introduce a nightly call to each elderly resident in our community. A brief chat to see how things are going, and to establish their needs," he said.
“They are so dedicated, are really putting themselves out there, right on the frontline,” he added.
Councillor John Kyle of the Progressive Unionist Party who has been active as a politician and GP in east Belfast for decades, said local churches, resident groups, even restorative justice organisations were coming together.
However, street level action is happening more in economically deprived areas than in better off parts of the city. Middle class communities “have more of a cushion to protect themselves”, he said.
Paramilitary organisations still exist in east Belfast. Some are “self-serving criminal gangs”, according to Mr Kyle. Others are on “an arc of transformation”.
There is a community spirit emerging. And that is beyond the normal religious and political divides in Northern Ireland
“Those groups are making themselves available and are joining with other churches and groups to support the community,” he said.
Linda Ervine heads Turas, an Irish language group that "aims to connect people from Protestant communities to their own history with the Irish language".
Linda Ervine heads Turas, an Irish language group. Photograph: Stephen Davison
Some 250 students are enrolled in classes, which normally take place at the East Belfast Mission on the Newtownards Road. Last Monday, the classes were stopped.
Now, though, Turas is moving online with a Saturday morning class through Skype: “There is real enthusiasm. The learners are so glad that somebody is going to be keeping in contact with them, that they are going to be able to continue with their learning. That’s very heart-warming for us. We might have to do things in a different way, but we are still here to help,” she said.
Mervyn Gibson, grand secretary of the Orange Order and Presbyterian minister active in east Belfast, also speaks of actions by the community. "Many Orange lodges, bands, sports groups, football teams are all becoming involved in collecting groceries, delivering medicines," he said.
Mervyn Gibson, Presbyterian minister and grand secretary of the Orange Lodge, outside Templemore Primary School which is the base of community action against coronavirus in east Belfast. Photograph: Stephen Davison
"There is a community spirit emerging. And that is beyond the normal religious and political divides in Northern Ireland. We need to park our differences and look after our community – all our communities."


theirishtimes--2020-03-24--Coronavirus test backlog: How did it emerge and can it be controlled?

Widespread testing for coronavirus is among the key pillars of the Government ’ s plan to slow the spread of the pandemic in Ireland .
With a backlog of 40,000 people awaiting a test , to succeed , the State ’ s success hinges on a plan to ramp up the testing capacity to 15,000 a day in the coming weeks – roughly an entire seven-month flu season ’ s worth of testing – every day , for months on end .
How did the backlog emerge ?
Ireland ’ s current strategy – “ community testing ” of those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a picture of where and how the disease is developing but , most importantly , to isolate confirmed cases and those with whom they have been in touch .
It is worth noting that Ireland ’ s testing figures compare relatively well to other European countries .
According to ourworldindata.com , Ireland ’ s rate of 1,350 tests per million lags Austria and Germany , but is comfortably ahead of the UK and France , for example .
It is some way off South Korea , considered among the best testing regimes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ unprecedented pressure on Ireland ’ s virus testing system .
The demand for testing exploded from Friday 13th , when the threshold for eligibility was lowered .
Anyone with symptoms was advised to contact their GP , who , after a telephone consultation , refers their patient on for testing .
The removal of consultation fees was good public health policy , but inevitably increased the demand for testing .
During a normal flu season , the National Virus Reference Laboratory ( NVRL ) might carry out 600 tests a week .
Now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ laboratories , 1,500-2,000 test results are produced a day , according to its director , Cillian De Gascun , who is also chairman of the HSE ’ s coronavirus expert advisory group .
The plan is to increase that about 10-fold in the next four-five weeks .
Can the backlog be controlled ?
Much depends on how effective Ireland is at ramping up its capacity .
Already , some 41 “ community sampling centres ” – often mislabelled as test centres – have been set up .
The most high profile of these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Páirc uí Caoimh , and next to the LE Samuel Beckett in Dublin ’ s docklands .
The swabs taken at these centres are , generally speaking , sent to the NVRL .
More than 10 hospital laboratories have been equipped to analyse tests around the country , but Dr De Gascun says the primary focus for these centres is on their own patients and staff .
“ Broadly speaking , the hospitals are testing their own patients and their own healthcare workers , and then the NVRL is moving into community testing.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ wider strategy of providing access for those most in need – the sickest , and those whose participation in frontline efforts to fight the virus will be suspended while they await results of a test .
Meanwhile , community testing – the swabs being taken around the country – will be largely sent to the NVRL , which is working with the Department of Agriculture , Food and Marine to identify additional lab space and is , according to Dr De Gascun , aiming for “ almost a factory-style high throughput model of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The aim is also to vary the method of laboratory testing done at each centre , so the system doesn ’ t become overdependent on one type of kit .
This is important , as equipment shortages have slowed efforts in recent days .
“ We ’ re in a pinch-point now where we have the labs , we have a certain amount of equipment , we have the staff , but we ’ re also waiting on the assays [ a key piece of equipment ] to come in and be available @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Dr De Gascun .
The expectation is a glut of commercial kits will come onto the market in two-three weeks , enabling the further ramping up of testing .
In the meantime , the list of those waiting to be tested , and those awaiting results , is unlikely to shrink .
About 4,500 swabs can be gathered a day , but only 1,500-2,000 test results come from the labs , due to kit shortages .
Forcing that backlog down can be achieved only by ramping up capacity .
There is an emotional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is worth remembering that for those well enough to remain out of hospital while awaiting their results , the outcome is largely academic .
They are being asked to behave as though they have the disease , and self-isolate for 14 days .
Unless their condition deteriorates , this is their treatment , with or without a test .
Meanwhile , those awaiting tests are advised to make detailed lists of recent contacts while the information is fresh in their minds .
Mitigating the impact of the delays on the public health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tracing process is the most helpful thing individuals can do .

Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan has warned that Ireland "is at an early stage" in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic. Video: RTÉ
Widespread testing for coronavirus is among the key pillars of the Government's plan to slow the spread of the pandemic in Ireland.
With a backlog of 40,000 people awaiting a test, to succeed, the State’s success hinges on a plan to ramp up the testing capacity to 15,000 a day in the coming weeks – roughly an entire seven-month flu season’s worth of testing – every day, for months on end.
How did the backlog emerge?
Ireland’s current strategy – “community testing” of those with symptoms – is designed to build a picture of where and how the disease is developing but, most importantly, to isolate confirmed cases and those with whom they have been in touch.
It is worth noting that Ireland's testing figures compare relatively well to other European countries. According to ourworldindata.com, Ireland's rate of 1,350 tests per million lags Austria and Germany, but is comfortably ahead of the UK and France, for example. It is some way off South Korea, considered among the best testing regimes.
READ MORE
This strategy, though, has placed unprecedented pressure on Ireland’s virus testing system.
The demand for testing exploded from Friday 13th, when the threshold for eligibility was lowered. Anyone with symptoms was advised to contact their GP, who, after a telephone consultation, refers their patient on for testing. The removal of consultation fees was good public health policy, but inevitably increased the demand for testing.
During a normal flu season, the National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL) might carry out 600 tests a week. Now, with the assistance of the other laboratories, 1,500-2,000 test results are produced a day, according to its director, Cillian De Gascun, who is also chairman of the HSE's coronavirus expert advisory group. The plan is to increase that about 10-fold in the next four-five weeks.
Can the backlog be controlled?
Much depends on how effective Ireland is at ramping up its capacity. Already, some 41 "community sampling centres" – often mislabelled as test centres – have been set up. The most high profile of these are at stadiums like Croke Park, Páirc uí Caoimh, and next to the LE Samuel Beckett in Dublin's docklands.
The swabs taken at these centres are, generally speaking, sent to the NVRL. More than 10 hospital laboratories have been equipped to analyse tests around the country, but Dr De Gascun says the primary focus for these centres is on their own patients and staff.
“Broadly speaking, the hospitals are testing their own patients and their own healthcare workers, and then the NVRL is moving into community testing.”
This is in keeping with a wider strategy of providing access for those most in need – the sickest, and those whose participation in frontline efforts to fight the virus will be suspended while they await results of a test.
Meanwhile, community testing – the swabs being taken around the country – will be largely sent to the NVRL, which is working with the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine to identify additional lab space and is, according to Dr De Gascun, aiming for “almost a factory-style high throughput model of testing in the coming weeks”.
The aim is also to vary the method of laboratory testing done at each centre, so the system doesn’t become overdependent on one type of kit. This is important, as equipment shortages have slowed efforts in recent days.
“We’re in a pinch-point now where we have the labs, we have a certain amount of equipment, we have the staff, but we’re also waiting on the assays [a key piece of equipment] to come in and be available in a sustainable fashion,” says Dr De Gascun.
The expectation is a glut of commercial kits will come onto the market in two-three weeks, enabling the further ramping up of testing. In the meantime, the list of those waiting to be tested, and those awaiting results, is unlikely to shrink. About 4,500 swabs can be gathered a day, but only 1,500-2,000 test results come from the labs, due to kit shortages. Forcing that backlog down can be achieved only by ramping up capacity.
Should I be worried?
There is an emotional toll on those waiting. However, it is worth remembering that for those well enough to remain out of hospital while awaiting their results, the outcome is largely academic. They are being asked to behave as though they have the disease, and self-isolate for 14 days. Unless their condition deteriorates, this is their treatment, with or without a test.
Meanwhile, those awaiting tests are advised to make detailed lists of recent contacts while the information is fresh in their minds. Mitigating the impact of the delays on the public health strategy by self-isolating and helping the contact tracing process is the most helpful thing individuals can do.


theirishtimes--2020-03-24--Coronavirus: Extra accommodation secured for North’s homeless

Accommodation will be available for anyone who is homeless during the coronavirus crisis , the Northern Ireland Housing Executive has said .
Temporary accommodation units for 200 people have been secured in locations across the North , including in hotels and B & Bs with extra places also available in hostels .
These are in addition to some of 2,600 units of temporary accommodation already available .
Plans have also been put in place to ensure that anyone in temporary accommodation who needs to self-isolate will be able to do so .
A spokesman for the executive said contingency planning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , was at an “ advanced stage ” and there were also other options available if needed .
“ We are very confident our teams will be able to respond to future need as it arises , ” the spokesman said .
Properties usually used to house families while major structural upgrades are completed on their own homes can also be used , and additional funds have been approved to assist anyone presenting as homeless who may need furniture for their accommodation .
Measures have been taken to ensure “ that the front-line @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homelessness are provided with the additional funds they need to operate , including resources to secure additional temporary staff , ” the spokesman said .
There are significant differences to how homelessness is assessed and measured between Northern Ireland and the Republic .
In the North many households that are officially recorded as homeless are in fact living somewhere that is deemed unsuitable .
This could be as a result of affordability , the property being unfit or unsuitable or in cases of severe overcrowding .
The housing executive ’ s figures show @ @ @ @ @ @ @ temporary accommodation in the financial year 2018-2019 .
It estimated that there were 38 rough sleepers in Northern Ireland in November 2018 .
Rough sleepers can not be compelled to move into temporary accommodation , but it is understood some have done so in recent weeks because of concerns over coronavirus .
Staff have had been “ working continually since the onset of this situation and we have a central Covid-19 planning team in place , ” the spokesman said .
“ We will continue to fulfil our statutory homeless obligations during this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closely with the Department for Communities , the Public Health Agency , the Department for Health and local homeless providers to ensure the protection of the most vulnerable at this time.
” All public reception areas in housing executive offices have been closed because of coronavirus .
However , staff are continuing to work from their offices and should be contacted by telephone .

20 healthcare workers from the Belfast Respiratory Team have released a video calling on people to stay at home to help limit the spread of coronavirus. Video: Belfast Health and Social Care Trust/Reuters
Accommodation will be available for anyone who is homeless during the coronavirus crisis, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive has said.
Temporary accommodation units for 200 people have been secured in locations across the North, including in hotels and B&Bs with extra places also available in hostels. These are in addition to some of 2,600 units of temporary accommodation already available.
Plans have also been put in place to ensure that anyone in temporary accommodation who needs to self-isolate will be able to do so.
A spokesman for the executive said contingency planning for coronavirus, also known as Covid-19, was at an “advanced stage” and there were also other options available if needed.
READ MORE
“We are very confident our teams will be able to respond to future need as it arises,” the spokesman said.
Properties usually used to house families while major structural upgrades are completed on their own homes can also be used, and additional funds have been approved to assist anyone presenting as homeless who may need furniture for their accommodation.
Measures have been taken to ensure “that the front-line organisations working with those who are experiencing homelessness are provided with the additional funds they need to operate, including resources to secure additional temporary staff,” the spokesman said.
Cross-Border divergence
There are significant differences to how homelessness is assessed and measured between Northern Ireland and the Republic.
In the North many households that are officially recorded as homeless are in fact living somewhere that is deemed unsuitable. This could be as a result of affordability, the property being unfit or unsuitable or in cases of severe overcrowding.
The housing executive’s figures show that the body made 3,354 placements in temporary accommodation in the financial year 2018-2019. It estimated that there were 38 rough sleepers in Northern Ireland in November 2018.
Rough sleepers cannot be compelled to move into temporary accommodation, but it is understood some have done so in recent weeks because of concerns over coronavirus.
Staff have had been “working continually since the onset of this situation and we have a central Covid-19 planning team in place,” the spokesman said.
“We will continue to fulfil our statutory homeless obligations during this period.
"We are working very closely with the Department for Communities, the Public Health Agency, the Department for Health and local homeless providers to ensure the protection of the most vulnerable at this time."
All public reception areas in housing executive offices have been closed because of coronavirus. However, staff are continuing to work from their offices and should be contacted by telephone.


theirishtimes--2020-03-24--Coronavirus: Ban on all non-essential travel, commercial, social activity mooted

The Government is set to introduce further measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus on Tuesday , with a ban on all non-essential travel , commercial and social activity among the unprecedented options to be discussed by Ministers at the Cabinet ’ s weekly meeting .
Public health experts are meeting early on Tuesday morning to consider a range of possible actions and will advise the Cabinet of any new restrictions they believe are now necessary to slow the spread of the virus .
However , it is expected that significant new restrictions on travel , work and movement will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mirror recent moves made by several European countries and by the British government on Monday night .
Among the options under consideration by the National Public Health Emergency Team ( NPHET ) , which will make the recommendations to Cabinet , are the closure of non-essential business premises , playgrounds where they have not been closed already , and stricter implementation of physical distancing in parks and on beaches .
There is a reluctance in Government to close public spaces .
Some restrictions on public transport may also be considered , although sources @ @ @ @ @ @ @ buses had plummeted .
The Government is also due to announce a multi-billion euro package to prop up incomes and boost emergency welfare payments as part of measures to tackle the deepening coronavirus crisis .
Two more patients died from Covid-19 , the NPHET said on Monday evening , and a record number of 219 new cases were reported .
There are now a total of 1,125 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the Republic , according to chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan .
Meanwhile , “ ten of thousands ” of people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Dr Holohan revealed , and priority will be given to healthcare workers and the sickest patients .
Sources on Monday night said the cost of the Government ’ s package of supports would likely run into billions of euros .
One element will be a substantial increase in the €203 welfare payment announced earlier this month for people who lost their job due to the Covid-19 emergency .
The second element is an income support scheme similar to that announced recently by the Danish and UK governments .
The Irish scheme will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the outline is set to be announced by the Government on Tuesday .
The precise details were still being worked out on Monday night .
The scheme will see the State pay businesses 70-80 per cent of a worker ’ s salary up to a level of €35,000-€40,000 , or about the average wage , and the business will then pay the worker .
Businesses applying for State support will have to prove their income has dropped by 25 per cent and that they have liquidity difficulties .
The Government is also likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ insurance will receive no special privileges for hospital admissions during the crisis .
Sources say the health service will operate essentially as a “ one-tier ” system , with admission to hospital decided solely on clinical need .
At present people who buy private health insurance – almost half the population – can often secure speedier access to many treatments , while hospitals rely on income from the health insurers which pay them hundreds of millions of euros a year .
However , Government sources say this system will be suspended while the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Government is close to concluding an agreement with private hospitals to bring their capacity effectively into the public system , adding 1,900 beds as well as 200 ventilators to help deal with the expected influx of patients in the coming weeks .
The two new Covid-19 deaths involved males in the east of the country , and brought the total number of deaths to six .
Dr Holohan said he was “ very pleased ” with the response of the public to the restrictive measures introduced 10 days ago , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the people to comply with most of the measures most of the time ” .
With the backlog of people waiting to be tested reaching 40,000 over the weekend , he said it was still the intention to “ test as quickly and as broadly as possible ” .
Dr Holohan said there may be a lot of “ worried well ” among the tens of thousands seeking tests but he expected demand to drop over time .
Asked whether any completed swabs had expired while waiting to be processed , Dr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t honestly say that hasn ’ t happened.
” A number of food and drink outlets , including McDonald ’ s , Supermac ’ s and Starbucks , announced they would close due to the pandemic .
Bank of Ireland also announced the temporary closure of 101 outlets .
Knock airport said it would cease operation from next Monday until further notice .
Men account for 55 per cent of cases , according to an analysis of cases reported up to last Saturday .
Some 29 per cent of patients have been hospitalised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are associated with healthcare workers .
Twenty-five patients have been admitted to intensive care units .
Community transmission now accounts for 45 per cent of cases , close contact with confirmed cases for 23 per cent and travel abroad for 31 per cent .
Some 37 clusters have been reported , involving an average of five to six cases each .
RTÉ presenter Claire Byrne is among those to have been diagnosed with the virus , she revealed on Monday .
Tánaiste Simon Coveney , who was interviewed by Ms Byrne two weeks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be negative .
The World Health Organisation warned the pandemic was accelerating .
“ It took 67 days from the first reported case to reach the first 100,000 cases ; 11 days for the second 100,000 ; and just four days for the third 100,000 , ” WHO director general Dr Tedros said .

Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan has warned that Ireland "is at an early stage" in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic. Video: RTÉ
The Government is set to introduce further measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus on Tuesday, with a ban on all non-essential travel, commercial and social activity among the unprecedented options to be discussed by Ministers at the Cabinet’s weekly meeting.
Public health experts are meeting early on Tuesday morning to consider a range of possible actions and will advise the Cabinet of any new restrictions they believe are now necessary to slow the spread of the virus.
However, it is expected that significant new restrictions on travel, work and movement will be announced, which are likely to mirror recent moves made by several European countries and by the British government on Monday night.
Among the options under consideration by the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), which will make the recommendations to Cabinet, are the closure of non-essential business premises, playgrounds where they have not been closed already, and stricter implementation of physical distancing in parks and on beaches. There is a reluctance in Government to close public spaces.
READ MORE
Some restrictions on public transport may also be considered, although sources pointed out that numbers using trains and buses had plummeted. The Government is also due to announce a multi-billion euro package to prop up incomes and boost emergency welfare payments as part of measures to tackle the deepening coronavirus crisis.
Two more patients died from Covid-19, the NPHET said on Monday evening, and a record number of 219 new cases were reported.
There are now a total of 1,125 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the Republic, according to chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan.
Meanwhile, “ten of thousands” of people are seeking to be tested each day, Dr Holohan revealed, and priority will be given to healthcare workers and the sickest patients.
Support packages
Sources on Monday night said the cost of the Government’s package of supports would likely run into billions of euros. One element will be a substantial increase in the €203 welfare payment announced earlier this month for people who lost their job due to the Covid-19 emergency.
The second element is an income support scheme similar to that announced recently by the Danish and UK governments. The Irish scheme will take weeks to fully set up but the outline is set to be announced by the Government on Tuesday. The precise details were still being worked out on Monday night.
The scheme will see the State pay businesses 70-80 per cent of a worker’s salary up to a level of €35,000-€40,000, or about the average wage, and the business will then pay the worker.
Businesses applying for State support will have to prove their income has dropped by 25 per cent and that they have liquidity difficulties.
One-tier system
The Government is also likely to order that holders of private health insurance will receive no special privileges for hospital admissions during the crisis.
Sources say the health service will operate essentially as a “one-tier” system, with admission to hospital decided solely on clinical need.
At present people who buy private health insurance – almost half the population – can often secure speedier access to many treatments, while hospitals rely on income from the health insurers which pay them hundreds of millions of euros a year.
However, Government sources say this system will be suspended while the health service deals with the Covid-19 outbreak.
The Government is close to concluding an agreement with private hospitals to bring their capacity effectively into the public system, adding 1,900 beds as well as 200 ventilators to help deal with the expected influx of patients in the coming weeks.
The two new Covid-19 deaths involved males in the east of the country, and brought the total number of deaths to six.
Dr Holohan said he was “very pleased” with the response of the public to the restrictive measures introduced 10 days ago, and said the aim was for “most of the people to comply with most of the measures most of the time”.
With the backlog of people waiting to be tested reaching 40,000 over the weekend, he said it was still the intention to “test as quickly and as broadly as possible”.
Dr Holohan said there may be a lot of “worried well” among the tens of thousands seeking tests but he expected demand to drop over time.
Asked whether any completed swabs had expired while waiting to be processed, Dr Holohan replied: “I can’t honestly say that hasn’t happened.”
A number of food and drink outlets, including McDonald's, Supermac's and Starbucks, announced they would close due to the pandemic. Bank of Ireland also announced the temporary closure of 101 outlets. Knock airport said it would cease operation from next Monday until further notice.
Breakdown of cases
Men account for 55 per cent of cases, according to an analysis of cases reported up to last Saturday.
Some 29 per cent of patients have been hospitalised, and 25 per cent of cases are associated with healthcare workers. Twenty-five patients have been admitted to intensive care units.
Community transmission now accounts for 45 per cent of cases, close contact with confirmed cases for 23 per cent and travel abroad for 31 per cent. Some 37 clusters have been reported, involving an average of five to six cases each.
RTÉ presenter Claire Byrne is among those to have been diagnosed with the virus, she revealed on Monday. Tánaiste Simon Coveney, who was interviewed by Ms Byrne two weeks ago, was tested and found to be negative.
The World Health Organisation warned the pandemic was accelerating. "It took 67 days from the first reported case to reach the first 100,000 cases; 11 days for the second 100,000; and just four days for the third 100,000," WHO director general Dr Tedros said.


theirishtimes--2020-03-25--Ban on evictions and rent freeze in new emergency legislation

The new emergency legislation published on Tuesday night contains measures to prevent evictions and implement a rent freeze for the duration of the coronavirus crisis .
The measures , announced last week , are among a swathe of emergency moves contained in the Emergency Measures in the Public Interest ( Covid-19 ) Bill 2020 , which is expected to pass the Dáil and Seanad by the end of the week .
The Bill was approved by the Cabinet on Tuesday .
Under a section on how the existing Residential Tenancies Act operates will be changed , it says that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from the legislation taking effect .
The moves are supported by all parties and groups in the Dáil .
This period , however , may be extended by the Government if deemed necessary .
The Bill says a “ landlord shall not serve a notice of termination in relation to the tenancy of a dwelling during the emergency period ” .
It also says that an “ an increase in the rent under the tenancy of a dwelling ” that would ordinarily take effect during the emergency period “ shall not take effect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ payable in respect of any period falling during the emergency period ” .
Those served with termination notices on their tenancy , but who have yet to leave their rental property , will be “ entitled to remain in occupation of the dwelling until the expiration of the emergency period ” .
In effect , it would mean that if someone has a 90-day notice period , and is 30 days into that period , the new legislation means the notice period would pause for the duration of the emergency .
When the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have 60 days left on their notice period .
The tenant will also be encouraged to get rent supplement from the State if paying rent becomes a problem .
Other measures proposed by Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy and approved by the Cabinet were the abolition of the requirement for planning permission for the construction of emergency health facilities , such as hospitals ; the removal of the requirement of a change of planning permission for a restaurant to do takeaways , and the pausing of various statutory periods in the planning process @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Christmas period when a pause is placed on planning periods due to public offices being closed .
“ The measures we are proposing remove planning barriers for temporary medical facilities , allow hard-hit restaurants adapt , protect the supply chain , and preserve the integrity of decision-making and public participation in the planning process , ” Mr Murphy said .
“ We will keep the situation under constant review as this crisis evolves and respond to any emerging issues in the coming weeks and months.
” Another change being made will allow retailers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lorries and other vehicles throughout the day and not just at designated times .
Local authorities have told Mr Murphy they will not enforce existing rules “ given the compelling reasons in the public interest to support the delivery of food and essential supplies at this time ” .
A Government statement said : “ These conditions were designed with normal ‘ business as usual ’ circumstances in mind and , in the context of the current emergency , can not be allowed to act as a barrier to the effective operation of @ @ @ @

The new emergency legislation published on Tuesday night contains measures to prevent evictions and implement a rent freeze for the duration of the coronavirus crisis.
The measures, announced last week, are among a swathe of emergency moves contained in the Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (Covid-19) Bill 2020, which is expected to pass the Dáil and Seanad by the end of the week.
The Bill was approved by the Cabinet on Tuesday. Under a section on how the existing Residential Tenancies Act operates will be changed, it says that the emergency period will be for three months from the legislation taking effect. The moves are supported by all parties and groups in the Dáil.
Minister for Health Simon Harris and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar: “Like its counterparts across the world, the Irish Government will take on heaps more debt as it seeks to replace some of the income workers have lost, while also trying to keep the structure of employment in place in many companies through wage subsidies.” Photograph: Gareth Chaney/Collins
This period, however, may be extended by the Government if deemed necessary. The Bill says a “landlord shall not serve a notice of termination in relation to the tenancy of a dwelling during the emergency period”.
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It also says that an “an increase in the rent under the tenancy of a dwelling” that would ordinarily take effect during the emergency period “shall not take effect during that period and shall not be payable in respect of any period falling during the emergency period”.
Those served with termination notices on their tenancy, but who have yet to leave their rental property, will be “entitled to remain in occupation of the dwelling until the expiration of the emergency period”. In effect, it would mean that if someone has a 90-day notice period, and is 30 days into that period, the new legislation means the notice period would pause for the duration of the emergency. When the crisis ends, such a tenant would have 60 days left on their notice period.
The tenant will also be encouraged to get rent supplement from the State if paying rent becomes a problem.
Planning changes
Other measures proposed by Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy and approved by the Cabinet were the abolition of the requirement for planning permission for the construction of emergency health facilities, such as hospitals; the removal of the requirement of a change of planning permission for a restaurant to do takeaways, and the pausing of various statutory periods in the planning process. This would be similar to the Christmas period when a pause is placed on planning periods due to public offices being closed.
“The measures we are proposing remove planning barriers for temporary medical facilities, allow hard-hit restaurants adapt, protect the supply chain, and preserve the integrity of decision-making and public participation in the planning process,” Mr Murphy said. “We will keep the situation under constant review as this crisis evolves and respond to any emerging issues in the coming weeks and months.”
Another change being made will allow retailers receive deliveries and stock their stores from lorries and other vehicles throughout the day and not just at designated times. Local authorities have told Mr Murphy they will not enforce existing rules “given the compelling reasons in the public interest to support the delivery of food and essential supplies at this time”.
A Government statement said: “These conditions were designed with normal ‘business as usual’ circumstances in mind and, in the context of the current emergency, cannot be allowed to act as a barrier to the effective operation of supply chains.”


theirishtimes--2020-03-24--Jury fail to reach verdicts in trial of three men accused of raping woman in car

The jury have failed to reach verdicts in the trial of three Dublin men accused of raping a woman in a car .
The three Dublin men , who are now in their early 20s and who can not be named for legal reasons , had pleaded not guilty at the Central Criminal Court to raping a woman at Bull Island , Dollymount , Dublin , on January 5 , 2016 .
The trial heard that the three men were all teenagers when they drove the then 18-year-old woman to Dollymount Strand were they are alleged to have raped her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say that the woman consented to all sexual activity and had initiated sex .
On day 29 of the trial , the jury indicated that they were unable to reach a verdict on any count after deliberating for five and a half hours .
Mr Justice Alexander Owens said he wished to express his gratitude on behalf of the judiciary and the people of Ireland to the jury for their service .
Mr Justice Owens said that these have been exceptional circumstances due to the events of the past few weeks and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service for longer than would normally happen in a trial like this .
He exempted them from jury service for a period of 15 years .
He remanded the three men on continuing bail and adjourned the matter to June 15 next .
During the trial , the woman testified that on the night of the alleged rapes she met the defendants , who she didn ’ t know , in an internet cafe in the city centre .
She said they told her they were going for a drive and would bring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She said she did not want to go at first , but agreed to go for a walk and got into the car with the three men .
She said that the car ended up in the “ middle of nowhere ” and was “ out at the sea ” .
The woman said the men then raped her .
She said she felt horrible , shocked and disgusted .
She said her door had a child lock on it and she could not get out of the car the whole time she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trial , one of the accused men said that the complainant was trying to ruin his life , that he has never disrespected a woman and never would .
It was put to the man by Anne-Marie Lawlor SC , prosecuting , that he never thought a homeless woman who was addicted to tablets would follow this case through .
He rejected this suggestion , said nothing happened to the woman and that she was treated with nothing but respect by himself and his “ two gentlemen friends ” .
He accepted that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ alongside the word “ slut ” .

The court heard one defendant accepted that he put the woman’s number in his phone alongside the word “slut”.
A jury has failed to reach verdicts in the trial of three Dublin men accused of raping a woman in a car.
The three Dublin men, who are now in their early 20s and who cannot be named for legal reasons, had pleaded not guilty at the Central Criminal Court to raping a woman at Bull Island, Dollymount, Dublin, on January 5, 2016.
The trial heard that the three men were all teenagers when they drove the then 18-year-old woman to Dollymount Strand were they are alleged to have raped her one after the other. The defendants say that the woman consented to all sexual activity and had initiated sex.
On day 29 of the trial, the jury indicated that they were unable to reach a verdict on any count after deliberating for five and a half hours.
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Mr Justice Alexander Owens said he wished to express his gratitude on behalf of the judiciary and the people of Ireland to the jury for their service.
Mr Justice Owens said that these have been exceptional circumstances due to the events of the past few weeks and that he would exempt the jury from future service for longer than would normally happen in a trial like this. He exempted them from jury service for a period of 15 years.
He remanded the three men on continuing bail and adjourned the matter to June 15 next.
During the trial, the woman testified that on the night of the alleged rapes she met the defendants, who she didn’t know, in an internet cafe in the city centre. She said they told her they were going for a drive and would bring her back to where she was.
She said she did not want to go at first, but agreed to go for a walk and got into the car with the three men. She said that the car ended up in the “middle of nowhere” and was “out at the sea”.
The woman said the men then raped her. She said she felt horrible, shocked and disgusted. She said her door had a child lock on it and she could not get out of the car the whole time she was there.
Giving evidence during the trial, one of the accused men said that the complainant was trying to ruin his life, that he has never disrespected a woman and never would.
It was put to the man by Anne-Marie Lawlor SC, prosecuting, that he never thought a homeless woman who was addicted to tablets would follow this case through. He rejected this suggestion, said nothing happened to the woman and that she was treated with nothing but respect by himself and his “two gentlemen friends”.
He accepted that he put her number in his phone alongside the word “slut”.


theirishtimes--2020-03-24--Coronavirus: People seeking testing must now display two symptoms rather than one

People seeking testing for coronavirus will have to display two major symptoms rather than one before they are referred , following a major change in how those deemed suitable for testing are selected .
Patients will have to show fever and at least one sign of respiratory disease - such as cough or shortness of breath - before they can be referred for testing , under a change recommended by the National Public Health Emergency Team .
One further death and 204 new confirmed cases have been reported by the NPHET at its daily briefing on Tuesday evening .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ east of the country , had an underlying health condition .
This brings to seven the number of deaths from Covid-19 in the Republic , and to 1,329 the number of confirmed cases .
Up to now , either fever or cough was considered sufficient for referral , but this led to a massive increase in demand , with 20,000 people a day seeking testing .
Chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan said this had led to a lot of inappropriate testing and a focus was needed now on priority groups such as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He admitted public health officials had “ cast the net too widely , in good faith ” when they loosened the criteria two weeks ago but added they had always said “ we won ’ t get everything right ” .
The latest change is likely to sharply reduce the number of people referred for testing from the present levels , which Dr Holohan described as unfeasible and unsustainable .
To date , 17,992 tests have been carried out in laboratories across the country , according to NPHET .
Just 6 per cent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of cases up to Sunday evening shows 55 per cent are in men and 45 per cent in women .
There are 44 clusters involving 243 cases .
Some 277 patients ( 29 per cent ) have been hospitalised and , of these , 29 have required admission to ICU .
The proportion of cases involving healthcare workers continues to rise , and now stands at 26 per cent ( 247 cases ) .
The proportion of community transmission cases also continues to rise , and now stands at 47 per cent .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 535 - 55 per cent of all cases - followed by Cork , with 123 cases ( 13 per cent ) .
Dr Holohan said a number of factors had influenced its recommendations to Government for further restrictions to limit the spread of Covid-19 .
These included the fact that the number of cases was now over 1,000 , an increase in admission to ICU , a number of deaths , the prevalence of community transmission and the number of cases involving healthcare workers .
Officials were unable to say how long @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 40,000 at the weekend - currently is .
The average time for processing tests has increased from 10-12 hours last week to 26 hours now as a result of increased demand , according to Dr Cillian de Gascun , director of the National Virus Reference Laboratory .
The waiting time for processing tests for hospitalised patients was significantly shorter , he said .
Swabs of the virus can stay live for seven to 10 days so no samples have expired due to the delays , he added .
The NVRL is processing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ laboratories are doing 750 .
There were shortages of some parts of the kit used , he said , though testing capacity was being ramped up .
In four weeks ’ time , it is planned that 15,000 tests a day will be carried out .
“ When you ’ re in the middle of a pandemic everyone is pulling on the same supply resource.
” The HSE ’ s current stock of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) for healthcare workers are “ low ” , according to HSE chief clinical officer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was hoped that a large consignment of masks , gowns and goggles would arrive from China on Sunday .
Dr Holohan said it was “ very encouraging ” that the average number of contacts in confirmed cases had dropped from 20 last week to about five .

Richard Quinlan, Chief Ambulance Officer for North Leinster and Advanced Paramedic demonstrating how the test for coronavirus is performed. File photograph: Alan Betson/The Irish Times
People seeking testing for coronavirus will have to display two major symptoms rather than one before they are referred, following a major change in how those deemed suitable for testing are selected.
Patients will have to show fever and at least one sign of respiratory disease - such as cough or shortness of breath - before they can be referred for testing, under a change recommended by the National Public Health Emergency Team.
One further death and 204 new confirmed cases have been reported by the NPHET at its daily briefing on Tuesday evening.
Today’s highlights:
READ MORE
The deceased patient, a male in the east of the country, had an underlying health condition.
This brings to seven the number of deaths from Covid-19 in the Republic, and to 1,329 the number of confirmed cases.
Up no now, either fever or cough was considered sufficient for referral, but this led to a massive increase in demand, with 20,000 people a day seeking testing.
Chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan said this had led to a lot of inappropriate testing and a focus was needed now on priority groups such as people in hospital or healthcare workers.
He admitted public health officials had “cast the net too widely, in good faith” when they loosened the criteria two weeks ago but added they had always said “we won’t get everything right”.
The latest change is likely to sharply reduce the number of people referred for testing from the present levels, which Dr Holohan described as unfeasible and unsustainable.
Backlog
To date, 17,992 tests have been carried out in laboratories across the country, according to NPHET. Just 6 per cent of samples tested positive.
An analysis of cases up to Sunday evening shows 55 per cent are in men and 45 per cent in women. There are 44 clusters involving 243 cases.
Some 277 patients (29 per cent) have been hospitalised and, of these, 29 have required admission to ICU.
The proportion of cases involving healthcare workers continues to rise, and now stands at 26 per cent (247 cases).
The proportion of community transmission cases also continues to rise, and now stands at 47 per cent.
Dublin has the highest number of cases at 535 - 55 per cent of all cases - followed by Cork, with 123 cases (13 per cent).
Dr Holohan said a number of factors had influenced its recommendations to Government for further restrictions to limit the spread of Covid-19. These included the fact that the number of cases was now over 1,000, an increase in admission to ICU, a number of deaths, the prevalence of community transmission and the number of cases involving healthcare workers.
Officials were unable to say how long the backlog for testing - which stood at 40,000 at the weekend - currently is.
Shortages
The average time for processing tests has increased from 10-12 hours last week to 26 hours now as a result of increased demand, according to Dr Cillian de Gascun, director of the National Virus Reference Laboratory. The waiting time for processing tests for hospitalised patients was significantly shorter, he said.
Swabs of the virus can stay live for seven to 10 days so no samples have expired due to the delays, he added.
The NVRL is processing 1,300 tests a day, while hospital laboratories are doing 750.
There were shortages of some parts of the kit used, he said, though testing capacity was being ramped up. In four weeks’ time, it is planned that 15,000 tests a day will be carried out.
“When you’re in the middle of a pandemic everyone is pulling on the same supply resource.”
The HSE's current stock of personal protective equipment (PPE) for healthcare workers are "low", according to HSE chief clinical officer Dr Colm Henry. However, it was hoped that a large consignment of masks, gowns and goggles would arrive from China on Sunday.
Dr Holohan said it was “very encouraging” that the average number of contacts in confirmed cases had dropped from 20 last week to about five.


theirishtimes--2020-03-24--Dissidents accused of exploiting coronavirus with hoax Fermanagh bomb

Dissident republicans have been accused of exploiting the coronavirus pandemic after they were blamed for a disruptive bomb hoax in Co Fermanagh .
A senior officer branded the extremists a “ disgrace ” after the fake device was left in the Rosslea area .
Police Service of Northern Ireland ( PSNI ) Supt Clive Beatty said the perpetrators went to great lengths to make the object look like a bomb .
It was found by a member of the public on Monday night , prompting a day-long security alert involving police and Army bomb disposal experts .
“ Given the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relation to the coronavirus pandemic , it is hard to fathom there are individuals in our community who are intent on causing such disruption by exploiting this global emergency for their own ends , ” said Mr Beatty .
“ Dissident republicans are a small minority and we need to stand as a united community , to say loudly that they are a disgrace and a distraction.
” Supt Beatty added : “ It beggars belief that dissident republicans would want to exploit this situation for their own ends .
Their selfish behaviour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from other community priorities for a significant number of hours .
“ This says so much about dissident republicans – that in the face of a national emergency their first thought is to use the opportunity to target emergency services and first responders – the very people who are doing all they can to help communities and take care of the vulnerable .
“ I would like to thank the Rosslea community , who were disrupted today , for their patience and co-operation during the security alert .
“ The dissident republicans responsible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lengths to make this device appear viable and to plant it on Clough Road .
“ They didn ’ t care about the consequences of their actions and how it would affect others.
” – PA

A senior officer branded the extremists a “disgrace” after the fake device was left in the Rosslea area, in Co Fermanagh. File photograph: Google Street View
Dissident republicans have been accused of exploiting the coronavirus pandemic after they were blamed for a disruptive bomb hoax in Co Fermanagh.
A senior officer branded the extremists a "disgrace" after the fake device was left in the Rosslea area.
Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Supt Clive Beatty said the perpetrators went to great lengths to make the object look like a bomb.
It was found by a member of the public on Monday night, prompting a day-long security alert involving police and Army bomb disposal experts.
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“Given the unprecedented challenges the PSNI is facing in relation to the coronavirus pandemic, it is hard to fathom there are individuals in our community who are intent on causing such disruption by exploiting this global emergency for their own ends,” said Mr Beatty.
“Dissident republicans are a small minority and we need to stand as a united community, to say loudly that they are a disgrace and a distraction.”
Supt Beatty added: “It beggars belief that dissident republicans would want to exploit this situation for their own ends. Their selfish behaviour ended up diverting valuable police resources away from other community priorities for a significant number of hours.
“This says so much about dissident republicans – that in the face of a national emergency their first thought is to use the opportunity to target emergency services and first responders – the very people who are doing all they can to help communities and take care of the vulnerable.
“I would like to thank the Rosslea community, who were disrupted today, for their patience and co-operation during the security alert.
“The dissident republicans responsible for this senseless act went to great lengths to make this device appear viable and to plant it on Clough Road.
“They didn’t care about the consequences of their actions and how it would affect others.” – PA


theirishtimes--2020-03-24--Jury fail to reach verdict on number of charges against creche worker

The jury have failed to reach a number of verdicts in the trial of a childcare worker accused sexually assaulting four girls in a Leinster creche .
On Monday the jury returned five verdicts of not guilty in relation to two of the four complainants .
The man was acquitted on three charges relating to the first girl and acquitted of all two charges in relation to the fourth girl .
The jury foreman had then asked Judge Elma Sheahan for more time to continue deliberations on the outstanding charges .
On day 23 of the trial on Tuesday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Court trial told the judge that they were unable to agree on verdicts for any of the remaining 18 counts of sexual assault after deliberating for 21 hours and 41 minutes .
The 29-year-old man , who can not be named to protect the identity of the children , had pleaded not guilty to 23 counts of sexually assaulting the girls at the creche on dates between August 2014 and December 2016 , when they were aged between five and eight years old .
Judge Sheahan thanked the jury for their service .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and adjourned the matter to June 16 , next .
The trial continued despite the coronavirus outbreak , with extra measures put in place to allow the jurors to maintain social distance .
Jurors listened to closing speeches while sitting spread out around the court , rather than in the jury box and deliberated in the court room instead of the smaller jury room .
The prosecution alleged the accused man sexually assaulted the girls , who were all part of a “ small circle of friends ” , at various locations within @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the toilets and on the creche bus .
The allegations came to light in December 2016 when one of the girls told another child she had kissed the man ’ s “ privates ” and this was repeated to another worker in the creche .
Gardaí were notified by one of the girl ’ s parents and obtained CCTV footage from the creche the following day , before interviewing each complainant in January 2017 .
Videos of each child ’ s interview with specially trained gardaí was played to the jury , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ video-link .
Their parents also gave evidence .
In her closing address , Orla Crowe SC , prosecuting , told the jury the man sexually assaulted the children in a “ quick , furtive , audacious manner ” in locations that were outside the line of vision of the creche CCTV cameras .
She submitted children of such a young age would not have made up such allegations and had no reason to do so .
However the man ’ s lawyers said the case was “ marked by its failure to listen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man had been left “ utterly devastated ” by the false allegations made against him .
Sean Guerin SC , defending , said there had been a number of failings made by gardaí investigating the case .
He pointed to a number of inconsistencies in the case , including the fact that the second complainant admitted under cross-examination that she might have been saying things about the man that weren ’ t true .
He said the third child may have been handled “ clumsily ” by the man when he was getting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agreed under cross-examination that it was not inappropriate .
Mr Guerin submitted to the jury that they were dealing with “ suggestibility ” between a group of friends , who were talking and sharing jokes .
He said the fourth child changed her account of what happened to her after speaking to the first child directly before her interview with specialist gardaí .
And he said the first child appeared to have been involved in some “ petty and relatively innocent jealousy ” in relation to not being the man ’ s favourite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of hand ” .
The jury was told the garda investigators took the allegations at face value and committed repeated breaches of child interview guidelines .
Mr Guerin said they did not investigate the “ obvious contradictions ” between the accounts the children gave in their initial garda interviews compared to what they said in later interviews .
He said gardaí used the interests of the child as a “ fig leaf ” to cover up the failures of the investigation .
Several of the man ’ s former colleagues gave evidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ethic .
They almost all expressed shock and surprise at the allegations , with one woman testifying that she would let the man mind her own children .

On day 23 of the trial on Tuesday, the jury in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court trial told the judge that they were unable to agree on verdicts for any of the remaining 18 counts of sexual assault after deliberating for 21 hours and 41 minutes. File photograph: Dave Meehan/The Irish Times
The jury have failed to reach a number of verdicts in the trial of a childcare worker accused sexually assaulting four girls in a Leinster creche.
On Monday the jury returned five verdicts of not guilty in relation to two of the four complainants. The man was acquitted on three charges relating to the first girl and acquitted of all two charges in relation to the fourth girl.
The jury foreman had then asked Judge Elma Sheahan for more time to continue deliberations on the outstanding charges.
On day 23 of the trial on Tuesday, the jury in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court trial told the judge that they were unable to agree on verdicts for any of the remaining 18 counts of sexual assault after deliberating for 21 hours and 41 minutes.
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The 29-year-old man, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the children, had pleaded not guilty to 23 counts of sexually assaulting the girls at the creche on dates between August 2014 and December 2016, when they were aged between five and eight years old.
Judge Sheahan thanked the jury for their service. She remanded the man on continuing bail and adjourned the matter to June 16, next.
The trial continued despite the coronavirus outbreak, with extra measures put in place to allow the jurors to maintain social distance.
Jurors listened to closing speeches while sitting spread out around the court, rather than in the jury box and deliberated in the court room instead of the smaller jury room.
The prosecution alleged the accused man sexually assaulted the girls, who were all part of a “small circle of friends”, at various locations within the creche, including an after-school room, the toilets and on the creche bus.
The allegations came to light in December 2016 when one of the girls told another child she had kissed the man’s “privates” and this was repeated to another worker in the creche.
Gardaí were notified by one of the girl’s parents and obtained CCTV footage from the creche the following day, before interviewing each complainant in January 2017.
Videos of each child’s interview with specially trained gardaí was played to the jury, and each child was then cross-examined via video-link. Their parents also gave evidence.
CCTV cameras
In her closing address, Orla Crowe SC, prosecuting, told the jury the man sexually assaulted the children in a “quick, furtive, audacious manner” in locations that were outside the line of vision of the creche CCTV cameras.
She submitted children of such a young age would not have made up such allegations and had no reason to do so.
However the man’s lawyers said the case was “marked by its failure to listen to the children” and that the man had been left “utterly devastated” by the false allegations made against him. Sean Guerin SC, defending, said there had been a number of failings made by gardaí investigating the case.
He pointed to a number of inconsistencies in the case, including the fact that the second complainant admitted under cross-examination that she might have been saying things about the man that weren’t true.
He said the third child may have been handled “clumsily” by the man when he was getting her off his knee and that she agreed under cross-examination that it was not inappropriate.
Mr Guerin submitted to the jury that they were dealing with “suggestibility” between a group of friends, who were talking and sharing jokes. He said the fourth child changed her account of what happened to her after speaking to the first child directly before her interview with specialist gardaí.
And he said the first child appeared to have been involved in some “petty and relatively innocent jealousy” in relation to not being the man’s favourite and he said this got “completely out of hand”.
The jury was told the garda investigators took the allegations at face value and committed repeated breaches of child interview guidelines.
Mr Guerin said they did not investigate the “obvious contradictions” between the accounts the children gave in their initial garda interviews compared to what they said in later interviews.
He said gardaí used the interests of the child as a “fig leaf” to cover up the failures of the investigation.
Several of the man’s former colleagues gave evidence and praised the man’s work ethic. They almost all expressed shock and surprise at the allegations, with one woman testifying that she would let the man mind her own children.


theirishtimes--2020-03-24--Man killed after falling off a horse in Dungarvan

A man was killed after falling off a horse on a public road in Co Waterford on Tuesday afternoon .
@ @ @ @ @ 3.30pm on the outskirts of Dungarvan just off the N25 Cork-Waterford road .
It is @ @ @ @ @ was 40 , suffered a fatal injury when he was thrown to the ground after @ @ @ @ @ Road between the Fair Lane Roundabout and Dungarvan fire station .
His body was later @ @ @ @ @ where a postmortem will be held .
The man is believed to be a member @ @ @ @ @ Dungarvan who lived in a nearby halting site .
The road was closed for several @ @ @ @ @ forensic examination of the scene by technical officers but has since reopened .
The incident @ @ @ @ @ fatal road traffic collision as it did not involve a mechanically propelled vehicle .
A @ @ @ @ @ into the incident was ongoing .

A man was killed after falling off a horse on a public road in Co Waterford on Tuesday afternoon.
The accident occurred at about 3.30pm on the outskirts of Dungarvan just off the N25 Cork-Waterford road.
It is understood the victim, who was 40, suffered a fatal injury when he was thrown to the ground after his horse bolted on Shandon Road between the Fair Lane Roundabout and Dungarvan fire station.
His body was later removed to Waterford University Hospital where a postmortem will be held.
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The man is believed to be a member of the Travelling community in Dungarvan who lived in a nearby halting site.
The road was closed for several hours to allow for a forensic examination of the scene by technical officers but has since reopened.
The incident is not classified as a fatal road traffic collision as it did not involve a mechanically propelled vehicle. A Garda spokeswoman said an investigation into the incident was ongoing.


theirishtimes--2020-03-24--Man threatened to kill mother of his child, court hears

“ He ’ s starting a lot of bother lately , ” a woman told Judge John Campbell during a sitting of Dublin District Family Court on Tuesday .
“ I can ’ t even walk to the shops.
” The man in question , who lives near her , is the father of one of her children , the woman explained in the court , where a fraction of the normal level of business is being done because of the coronavirus crisis .
The woman said the man had “ tried to drag me out of the house ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have a few drinks to celebrate a birthday .
On Monday night he turned up outside a house , threatening to kill her , and frightening the children , the court heard .
She did not call the police because the man “ just cycled off ” , but she had since been advised to approach the court .
Mr Justice Campbell issued a protection order against the man , who would be arrested if he breached it by using or threatening to use violence , or besetting the woman in any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return date of June 22nd , when the man would have a right to be heard .
Currently the family court is only dealing with interim barring order cases , or ex-parte applications ( one side only ) .
Where normally four judges would be sitting , now there is only one per day .
As well as one ex-parte application , Mr Justice Campbell heard two interim barring order cases on Tuesday .
A woman secured a two-year barring order against her adult son , who had been drinking heavily in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
When she entered the witness box to give evidence , the woman , who was wearing latex gloves , held her right hand so that it hovered over the Bible as she took the oath .
Her son , who was the subject of an interim barring order last week , did not turn up for the latest hearing .
The interim order was sought , she said , because “ I ’ m really afraid , he is every evening drunk .
I am working hard , really hard , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not in control of himself.
” She is afraid the landlord will throw her out of the property , where she and her son are the only tenants .
Since last week the woman has spoken on the phone with her son .
“ He says he is sorry , sorry , sorry .
He is speaking nicely because he is afraid.
” “ It is always a sad day when the court has to issue a barring order against an adult son , ” he said .
The second barring order @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sought an interim order last week against her partner because she was afraid for herself and their children .
The man , who has mental health issues , was very abusive , both verbally and physically .
“ I just can ’ t take it any more , ” she said .
Mr Justice Campbell asked the man – who was not legally represented – if he had any questions , or wanted to give evidence .

As well as one ex-parte application, Judge John Campbell heard two interim barring order cases on Tuesday. File photograph: Getty Images/iStockphoto
"He's starting a lot of bother lately," a woman told Judge John Campbell during a sitting of Dublin District Family Court on Tuesday. "I can't even walk to the shops."
The man in question, who lives near her, is the father of one of her children, the woman explained in the court, where a fraction of the normal level of business is being done because of the coronavirus crisis.
The woman said the man had “tried to drag me out of the house” on Saturday when she visited a friend to have a few drinks to celebrate a birthday.
On Monday night he turned up outside a house, threatening to kill her, and frightening the children, the court heard. She did not call the police because the man “just cycled off”, but she had since been advised to approach the court.
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Mr Justice Campbell issued a protection order against the man, who would be arrested if he breached it by using or threatening to use violence, or besetting the woman in any way. He gave the order a return date of June 22nd, when the man would have a right to be heard.
Currently the family court is only dealing with interim barring order cases, or ex-parte applications (one side only).
Where normally four judges would be sitting, now there is only one per day.
Separate cases
As well as one ex-parte application, Mr Justice Campbell heard two interim barring order cases on Tuesday.
A woman secured a two-year barring order against her adult son, who had been drinking heavily in the apartment they shared, sometimes with friends.
When she entered the witness box to give evidence, the woman, who was wearing latex gloves, held her right hand so that it hovered over the Bible as she took the oath. Her son, who was the subject of an interim barring order last week, did not turn up for the latest hearing.
The interim order was sought, she said, because “I’m really afraid, he is every evening drunk. I am working hard, really hard, and he is drunk every evening, and is not in control of himself.”
She is afraid the landlord will throw her out of the property, where she and her son are the only tenants. Since last week the woman has spoken on the phone with her son.
“He says he is sorry, sorry, sorry. He is speaking nicely because he is afraid.”
Mr Justice Campbell granted the order.
“It is always a sad day when the court has to issue a barring order against an adult son,” he said.
Order against partner
The second barring order case involved a woman who said she sought an interim order last week against her partner because she was afraid for herself and their children.
The man, who has mental health issues, was very abusive, both verbally and physically.
“I just can’t take it any more,” she said.
Mr Justice Campbell asked the man – who was not legally represented – if he had any questions, or wanted to give evidence.
No, he replied.
Mr Justice Campbell granted a three-year barring order.


theirishtimes--2020-03-24--Varadkar urges people to ‘stay home’ as he announces new restrictions

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has asked people to “ stay home if at all possible ” as he announced new restrictions to help the country tackle the spread of coronavirus .
Under the new measures , which support those already outlined by the Taoiseach earlier this month , outdoor gatherings should be restricted to four people , and can only be greater if they involve the same household .
Meanwhile , he outlined €3.7 billion worth of increased welfare payments and income supports to help those who have lost , or will lose , their jobs .
Yet this money will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three months alone .
Covid-19 welfare payment to those already laid off because of the crisis will increase from €205 to €350 , while a new income-support scheme for those who can be kept on a company ’ s books will see 70 per cent of a person ’ s salary covered by the State up to a maximum value of a €38,000 or €410 per week in take-home pay The cost will be “ great ” , he said .
“ But we can bear it , and we will be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We do so willingly because it is the right thing to do , and because we owe it to our fellow citizens.
” The Cabinet had been told , as it signed off on the measures on Tuesday , that the increased welfare payments and income support schemes would cost €300 million per week for 12 weeks .
The income subsidy will maintain the link between employees and employers and “ will make it easier for us to bounce back when this is all over ” .
The self-employed will be covered @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Doherty told a Government Buildings press conference that an estimate she made last week that 400,000 people would lose their jobs was “ conservative ” .
Instead a Cabinet memorandum warned that 500,000 jobs could be lost , but the Government intends that a large portion of these workers will qualify for the income and welfare supports .
An agreement has been reached with private hospitals which will see them effectively operate as public hospitals for the duration of the crisis , though some details remain to be resolved .
The deal added @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , critical care capacity and thousands of staff to our health service ” that would be needed in the weeks and months ahead , said the Taoiseach .
The order to close schools and crèches will now apply until April 19th .
Following recommendations from the National Public Health Emergency Team , theatres , clubs , gyms and leisure centres , hairdressers , betting shops , marts , markets , casinos , bingo halls , libraries and similar outlets are to close .
Rejecting the term “ lockdown ” , Mr Varadkar said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to different people and in different countries , and therefore can cause confusion .
We need clarity rather than confusion.
” However , hotels are reserved for “ essential non-social and non-tourist ” customers ; cafes and restaurants can open as take-aways only .
“ Non-essential ” shops must close .
Those that stay open must obey physical distancing rules .
All sporting events , including those behind closed doors , will be cancelled , including horse-racing .
Playgrounds and caravan parks will close , and places of worship should “ restrict numbers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will not take place .
Factories and construction sites can stay open , but only if the distancing rules are enforced.. Gardaí and park rangers will enforce the rules in parks and elsewhere .
Gardaí will also “ increase interventions ” in venues where such distancing is not being followed .
Those who live with someone who has a suspected case of Covid-19 and is awaiting a test or a test result should “ restrict movements until the test is reported negative , or for 14 days since the onset of symptoms , @ @ @ @ @

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar during a press briefing at Government Buildings on Tuesday. He introduced sweeping measures to tackle coronavirus, including restricting all public gatherings to four people. Photograph: Steve Humphreys/PA Wire
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has asked people to "stay home if at all possible" as he announced new restrictions to help the country tackle the spread of coronavirus.
Under the new measures, which support those already outlined by the Taoiseach earlier this month, outdoor gatherings should be restricted to four people, and can only be greater if they involve the same household.
Meanwhile, he outlined €3.7 billion worth of increased welfare payments and income supports to help those who have lost, or will lose, their jobs. Yet this money will cover the bill just for the next three months alone.
Covid-19 welfare payment to those already laid off because of the crisis will increase from €205 to €350, while a new income-support scheme for those who can be kept on a company’s books will see 70 per cent of a person’s salary covered by the State up to a maximum value of a €38,000 or €410 per week in take-home pay
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The cost will be “great”, he said. “But we can bear it, and we will be able to pay it back as a nation. We do so willingly because it is the right thing to do, and because we owe it to our fellow citizens.”
The Cabinet had been told, as it signed off on the measures on Tuesday, that the increased welfare payments and income support schemes would cost €300 million per week for 12 weeks.
The income subsidy will maintain the link between employees and employers and “will make it easier for us to bounce back when this is all over”. The self-employed will be covered too.
Welfare supports
Minister for Social Protection Regina Doherty told a Government Buildings press conference that an estimate she made last week that 400,000 people would lose their jobs was "conservative".
Instead a Cabinet memorandum warned that 500,000 jobs could be lost, but the Government intends that a large portion of these workers will qualify for the income and welfare supports.
An agreement has been reached with private hospitals which will see them effectively operate as public hospitals for the duration of the crisis, though some details remain to be resolved.
The deal added “over 2,000 beds, nine laboratories, critical care capacity and thousands of staff to our health service” that would be needed in the weeks and months ahead, said the Taoiseach.
The order to close schools and crèches will now apply until April 19th.
Following recommendations from the National Public Health Emergency Team, theatres, clubs, gyms and leisure centres, hairdressers, betting shops, marts, markets, casinos, bingo halls, libraries and similar outlets are to close.
Rejecting the term “lockdown”, Mr Varadkar said the word means “very different things to different people and in different countries, and therefore can cause confusion. We need clarity rather than confusion.”
However, hotels are reserved for “essential non-social and non-tourist” customers; cafes and restaurants can open as take-aways only. “Non-essential” shops must close. Those that stay open must obey physical distancing rules.
Closed doors
All sporting events, including those behind closed doors, will be cancelled, including horse-racing. Playgrounds and caravan parks will close, and places of worship should “restrict numbers”.
Planned indoor and outdoor events will not take place. Factories and construction sites can stay open, but only if the distancing rules are enforced..
Gardaí and park rangers will enforce the rules in parks and elsewhere.
Gardaí will also “increase interventions” in venues where such distancing is not being followed.
Those who live with someone who has a suspected case of Covid-19 and is awaiting a test or a test result should “restrict movements until the test is reported negative, or for 14 days since the onset of symptoms, whichever is shorter”.