Minister for Health Simon Harris has urged people to adhere to restrictions that were introduced to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
In a post on social media, Mr Harris appealed for people not to bend public health rules and said that they were introduced to save lives.
He said: "If you're thinking of bending or stretching the public health rules - please don’t. And to anyone who is, remember this number: 72. The number of people in ICU with #Covid19 fighting for their life & health.
"Be thankful it’s not you or I and let’s stay the course to keep it that way."
I get it; some people look at what might be possible from 18th May & think its ok to just start that from now. Bottom line is: it's not. It’s dangerous. Every day counts. The reason these restrictions are in place until then: to save YOUR life & keep your loved ones well #Covid19
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) May 10, 2020
If you're thinking of bending or stretching the public health rules -please don’t. And to anyone who is, remember this number: 72. The number of people in ICU with #Covid19 fighting for their life & health. Be thankful it’s not you or I & let’s stay the course to keep it that way
— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) May 10, 2020
Latest figures show that the number of deaths in Ireland due to Covid-19 is at 1,446. The overall number infected by the virus rose by 219 yesterday to 22,760.
Last week, the Government announced a roadmap for how Irish society and the economy can be re-opened from the Covid-19 restrictions. The stages will be three weeks apart starting on 18 May.
Yesterday, the Mr Harris said that Covid-19 must be made as weak as possible before 18 May, to give the roadmap for the easing of restrictions the greatest chance of success.
At a glance: What restrictions are going to be lifted and when?
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