Clare’s Independent TD insists the Government must place a greater emphasis on encouraging people to exercise personal accountability in the fight against COVID-19.
Michael McNamara says the focus on penalties is encouraging clandestine behaviour.
It comes amid growing concern over the rising number of Covid cases across the country.
769 cases of Covid-19 were confirmed across the country last night – the highest number since the end of February.
The head of the HSE has drscribed the spike as an early warning signal.
The number of people being treated in hospital has remained at a similar level to last week, with 359 patients admitted across the country today, but CEO of the HSE, Paul Reid says more mixing and moving is leading to the increase.
Discussions on easing restrictions are continuing this week, with the 5 kilometre limit, construction and outdoor and sporting activity, being looked at ahead of April 5th.
Clare’s independent TD insists the Government needs to move away from what he’s described as “arbitrary limits on people’s lives” in two weeks time and instead focus on personal responsibility.
Scariff Independent TD Michael McNamara believes trying to influence people through legislation, is pushing people into clandestine behaviour.
Meanwhile, there are concerns among some government Ministers that yesterday’s jump in cases could be the start of an upward trend.
Sunday is usually a low day for case numbers, and any sustained rise will put the already modest easing of restrictions planned for next month in danger.
NPHET will this week prepare to give its advice to government, but a number of cabinet members will have to balance any calls for caution against a feeling, held by some, that a lot of public good will has been lost, and that without some hope being given, people will increasingly break the restrictions.
If numbers continue to rise it will be hard to make the case to public health officials to allow any easing to go ahead.
