Government will recommend the use of facial coatings in crowded stores and public transport

A public information campaign next week will advise the public to wear masks or masks on public transportation and in stores as the country prepares to start getting out of the running of the bulls next week.

The Irish examiner learned that Health Minister Simon Harris told colleagues at a Fine Gael party teleconference meeting on Tuesday night that, with the approval of health officials from the National Emergency Team for Public Health, this would continue.

Nphet will make a decision on that on Thursday or Friday, and medical director Tony Holohan has already said that any advice on facial masks should not see front-line workers competing for the team.

But the campaign is expected to educate people on the need for face covers instead of face masks, like those worn by doctors. Homemade facial coatings will also be encouraged.

Mr. Harris told TDs, MEPs, and senators that such facial covers could include those purchased by the public or distributed by supermarkets.

The public will be recommended to use them when using Luas, buses, rail services, or when in busy retail units. But it will not be law.

Proper use and removal of facial coatings will also be explained as masks that users have mistakenly removed may have picked up the virus or drops and could be a threat.

“There will have to be a huge public awareness campaign. What is the quality (of the masks)? How do you do it? “Harris told party colleagues at the private meeting Tuesday night.

Harris pointed to existing online videos of doctors showing how facial liners are made and told his party colleagues that the move would not see the government providing everyone with facial masks.

“We are talking in certain circumstances that there could be a marginal benefit (in using them). And we are thinking about public transportation and retail, “Harris told his colleagues, according to several Fine Gael sources who reported their comments.

The reduction of restrictions next Monday is expected to experience a significant increase in the use of public transport and the reopening of some stores.