The Covid-19 Data Hub should be updated on a weekly basis to ensure public goodwill in the event of further localised lockdowns, according to Catherine Murphy, Kildare North TD and co-leader of the Social Democrats.
Deputy Murphy said:
“It is clear that we will have to live with this virus until there is a vaccine and public goodwill is an essential component of our battle. To do that, the message and information have to be coherent and understood – and the measures have to be seen to be fair and proportionate.
“As a representative for Kildare, I know it is a huge relief for over 220,000 people and many hundreds of businesses in the county to see the extended lockdown lifted.
“The Government needs to learn lessons from the lockdowns in Kildare, Offaly and Laois in how it responds to further outbreaks. The availability of usable data is essential if public buy-in is to be secured for any future restrictions needed.
“The Covid-19 Data hub was last updated on August 12 during the lockdown of the three counties. This is simply not good enough and I have today called on the Taoiseach to ensure that the data hub is updated every week.
“For businesses and residents to understand the rationale behind public health guidance, they need to see the figures underpinning these decisions.
“Public acceptance and proportionality in terms of future measures is essential. If lockdowns are going to be part of the fight against Covid-19, then up to date information is essential.”
September 2, 2020