Stephen Donnelly is considering Nphet’s “no mask” recommendation

It is being discussed by Government.

Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly is considering the new recommendation made by Nphet that the requirement for face masks in most places should end. Meeting to discuss it today, if it is agreed by Cabinet, the country would see the rule for mandatory mask wearing will no longer apply in schools, on public transport, taxis, in retail premises and in public offices. In a detailed letter from Nphet to Government last night, they explained their recommendation to get rid of face coverings as well as the reason behind the decision. Stephen Donnelly will now draw on this letter and devise a memorandum which will then be considered at the meeting of the full Cabinet on Tuesday and the coalition of leaders on Monday evening. Ministers will then need to decide whether mandatory mask wearing should be eliminated in all settings immediately, by the end of the month or on a staggered basis. Green Party leader and Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan said in the Dáil that there should be an immediate lifting of mask wearing, given that it is backed by public health advice. Donnelly will also be considering the advice by Dr. Tony Holohan that Nphet in its current state should be disbanded.