Routine Covid 19 Contact Tracing Could Come To An End In Weeks

Saturday, 25 September 2021 11:33

By Ross Lindsay

Government warned not to rush into plans

The Government has been warned not to rush into plans end routine Covid 19 contact tracing.

Reports today suggest that NPHET is considering the move in four weeks, when the majority of pandemic restrictions will be lifted in Ireland.

Earlier this week it was decided that children who are close contacts, but have no symptoms, do not have to be tested or isolate.

It's understood that decision will be monitored before a final decision is made on scrapping adult contact tracing.

For over a year now 1,000 staff have been involved in contacting thosands of close contacts every week.

Anthony Staines, Professor of Health Systems in DCU, says there are risks in closing the call centres.

More from National News

Department Of Housing Shifts Blame On To Council As Kildare Families Priced Out Of "Affordable" Housing Again

In a statement to Kfm News, the Department said the Barracksfield West development is part of the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme, and that the minimum prices, about 24% below market value, were decided by the Council.
Outbreak Of Bird Flu Has Been Confirmed In Carlow Turkey Flock

All flock owners have been urged to be vigilant for signs of bird flu and to maintain biosecurity measures
Lidl To Open Country’s First Net Zero Energy Store In Maynooth This Thursday

Designed in partnership with the Irish Green Building Council, the supermarket will generate as much energy as it consumes annually.
Contract For Maynooth Eastern Ring Road Project Awarded To Company Based In Kilcullen

The new single carriageway relief road will connect the R405 Celbridge Road in the south to the R148 Leixlip Road in the north.
Policy Shift Allows Private Sector To Construct Wastewater Plants For New Housing

Up until now, only Uisce Eireann has been allowed do this.
Parents Invited To Take Part In Major Survey On Primary Education’s Future

Audio

95 per cent of the country’s almost 3,100 primary schools fall under the patronage of religious bodies, according to figures from Education & Training Boards Ireland.
New "Affordable" Naas Homes Cost More Than Families Are Allowed To Borrow From Council

The same issue arose at Lattin Place on Rathasker Road because the three-beds started at €365,000, just five thousand euro over the loan threshold limit.
Minister Lawless Sought Legal Advice Over Claims Apprentice Electricians Bought Exam Papers For €50

Audio

Mr Lawless sought advice from the Attorney General on whether the matter should be referred to An Garda Síochána.