Liz Canavan, Assistant Secretary, Department of the Taoiseach

Last week the National Public Health Emergency Team recommended additional measures to further support nursing home residents and staff.
#COVID19ireland @HSELive @roinnslainte https://twitter.com/merrionstreet/status/1247154063394902016

These recommendations arise from the identification of clusters of COVID19 cases within a number of nursing homes. #COVID19ireland @HSELive @roinnslainte

The @HSELive will be working closely with the sector to support a range of additional measures to reduce the risk of transmission within nursing homes:
-Importantly each nursing home will be identifying a COVID-19 lead.
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-The @HSELive will provide access to Personal Protective Equipment, expert advice and training.
-Staff movement across residential facilities will be minimised and the HSE will support staff with alternative accommodation and transport, if required.
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-Staff screening will start in nursing homes twice a day, COVID-19 testing will be prioritised for staff.
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In addition to these measures, a temporary COVID-19 Financial Support Scheme is being introduced by Government and will be established in the coming days, to support the critical services provided by nursing homes.
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The Scheme will provide a temporary assistance payment to support private and voluntary nursing homes in managing any outbreak that occurs. It will be reviewed after the first month’s operation.
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