Jennifer Whitmore TD, Social Democrats spokesperson on Children, said that the Government must try to ensure that they communicate public health information for the childcare sector in a way that does not appear to contradict HSE guidelines.
Deputy Whitmore said:
“I welcome the HSE’s latest guidelines for parents as children begin to return to childcare settings and schools. It clearly sets out the circumstances under which it is permissible for a child to attend, such as if they have a runny nose but don’t have a cough or high temperature.
“On RTÉ’s ‘Back to Business’ programme last night, the Minister for Children seemed to contradict this advice by suggesting that children should be kept at home if they have any sort of respiratory infection, even if it’s mild.
“It is vital that Government ministers use plain language and accurate information when talking about health guidelines so the public is not confused about the official health advice.
“At a time when parents are feeling anxious about their children returning to their childcare providers, it is more important than ever that the messaging from the Government is clear at all times and is not at odds with the health experts.”
August 26, 2020