Ciara Kelly sees ‘no Justification for the Slow Exit from Restrictions’ January 17, 2022 Admin Irish News </p> <h2></h2> <p> NPHET ‘hasn’t done their job properly’ when it comes to COVID-19 mitigation measures that aren’t restrictions, according to Professor Anthony Staines.<br /> <br /> He says NPHET has been “consistently behind” other countries when it comes to measures such as antigen testing and face masks.<br /> <br /> However, he says a phased reopening would be the “sensible approach” given the situation we currently find ourselves in.<br /> <br /> The DCU professor was speaking as attention turns to the easing of restrictions such as the 8pm curfew for indoor events and the hospitality sector.<br /> <br /> There’s been cautious optimism in recent days that Ireland has reached the peak of the Omicron wave, with daily case numbers gradually decreasing.<br /> <br /> Overall hospital figures have remained high, but not at the same level seen during last January’s surge in COVID-19 cases.<br /> <br /> ICU numbers, however, have remained relatively stable since Christmas.<br /> <br /> NPHET’s due to meet this week, with Government leaders expressing optimism that some of the current restrictions can soon be eased.<br /> <br /> Tánaiste Leo Varadkar yesterday told RTÉ yesterday that the aim is to have a quicker and more ambitious reopening than last year, but it would not happen at a “risky or reckless pace”.<br /> <br /> On Newstalk Breakfast, Professor Staines – Professor of Health Systems and Public Health at DCU – said a phased reopening is the “best strategy” in the current situation.<br /> <br /> However, he said it’s “very unfortunate” we’ve ended up in a situation where restrictions needed to be reimposed in the first place.<br /> </p> <p>Credit to : Newstalk</p> <p> Please support our Sponsors here --
