HSE chief: ‘Significant duress on the health system. Something has to change’

The government this evening is said to be extremely concerned over the rise in Covid cases and it’s impact on our health system.

Speaking this evening the Taoiseach, Michael Martin said that nothing can be ruled out in relation to the virus as we enter a busy period for hospitals.

The HSE chief, Paul Reid also described the current situation as ‘grim’ as figured showed over 100 people with the virus currently in ICU.

Professor Luke O’Neill also had something to say on the matter.

The Professor of immunology at TCD said some some restrictions may be needed to curb the spread of the coronavirus, but described lockdown as ‘far too dramatic’.

O’Neill told RTE news that he feels restrictions on night clubs and pubs might be on the cards. “Sadly, we are heading in the wrong direction”.

Assess

Speaking today, the Taoiseach acknowledged that the country was in a “much different position” to where it was last year; “The evidence internationally is that the third dose is quite impactful – more impactful than the second dose, it’s being said. Our data from the over-80s already, who’ve had the booster, is encouraging in that respect.

However, he said we must try to cut out mixing with too many others; ‘We also have to comply with existing guidance and also individually and collectively reduce socialisation.”

Backwards

Tomorrow, the Cabinet committee on Covid-19 will meet to discuss the latest advice from the National Public Health Emergency Team.

Clarity of message will be what the public is looking for with already mounting anger within government departments over the past few days where confusion has left many puzzled as to what the right thing to do is.

Bars and nightclubs are open – but we are being urged not to go out. Working from home is also an area of confusion with the Minister for Health clashing with Tony Holohan about what we should or shouldn’t do.

The Department of Health has been notified of 3,805 new Covid cases.  582 people in hospital with the virus, which is up 26 since yesterday.