Taoiseach Leo Varadkar speaks to the nation on the need for immediate measures to slow the spread of coronavirus
Speaking from Washington DC, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced new measures aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19. As the number of cases of COVID-19 detected in Ireland increases there is a need for urgent action.
We have to move now to have the greatest impact.
The Taoiseach acknowledged that the virus would continue to spread around the world but it could be slowed. The number of cases of the virus would continue to grow, with people getting sick and some would die. He outlined measures to be introduced to reduce the impact of the virus and help the health services cope with the growing demand.
New measures to prevent the spread of the virus will come into effect tomorrow and remain in place until 29 March. Schools, colleges, childcare facilities and cultural institutions will close. Indoor gatherings of more than 100 people and outdoor gatherings of more than 500 people will be cancelled. People are asked to go to work, but where possible to work from home.
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney, speaking at a government press conference, reinforced the Taoiseach's message saying that those who must go to work should limit their contacts.
If you're showing symptoms, you should not delay. You should immediately self isolate.
Simon Coveney also emphasised the need to continue to follow handwashing and hygiene advice.
Shops, cafés and restaurants can remain open and supply chains will remain uninterrupted. Public transport will continue to operate. People are being advised to reduce social interaction as much as possible.
Acknowledging the sacrifices people were being asked to make, Leo Varadkar emphasised the need for a collective effort to stop the virus in its tracks and said that in time life would return to normal.
Minister for Health Simon Harris outlines specific advice for older people and people with underlying illnesses who are particularly vulnerable to the virus. They are being asked to reduce their contacts outside their homes.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr Tony Holohan, says that the number of cases of the virus continues to grow with a number of ICU hospitalisations and one death. He also pointed to a number of cluster infections, including in two hospitals and community infections. This is a change in the situation where the spread of the virus is still at an early stage.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 12 March 2020. The reporter is Laura Hogan.
