“We have achieved one of the highest rates in the world through a voluntary system and that is the system we will maintain.”
Taoiseach Michael Martin has said that he favours the system of voluntary vaccinations.
It comes as reports earlier today stated that the National Public Health Emergency Team would be considering mandatory vaccinations, and that the Department of Health was to prepare a paper on the issue.
Mr Martin said the system of voluntary vaccinations would be maintained, RTÉ News reports.
When asked about reports that NPHET will consider mandatory vaccination, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said that he favoured a voluntary vaccination programme | https://t.co/uHzE0ysBrD pic.twitter.com/XluhDcRAB3
— RTÉ News (@rtenews) January 10, 2022
“I’ve been very clear that I favour the voluntary approach to vaccination.
“We’ve done extraordinarily well as a country in terms of a 94% vaccination rate for the first and second dose and even 63% for the booster.”
He added: “Vaccination is the big game changer here, I favour voluntary. I fully respect that people will obviously explore the issues and research them and so on but, from my perspective, we have achieved one of the highest rates in the world through a voluntary system and that is the system we will maintain.”
He also said that no further restrictions are expected, however, the Omicron wave of Covid had not yet reached its peak and is expected do so within the coming weeks.
“We haven’t peaked yet – Covid has had many twists and turns, but I am confident that if we maintain the same focus we can get through this wave.”
Earlier today, Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald said she disapproves of mandatory vaccination, viewing it as potentially “counterproductive”.
“The public have voted with their feet in huge numbers and taken up vaccination,” she said.
“A small percentage have not, and that of course is their right, but I don’t think you will win people to the desirability of vaccinations by making it compulsory.
“In fact, I think it could have a counterproductive effect.”
23,909 cases of Covid were confirmed in Ireland today, bringing the total to over one million cases.
“Today, we continue to report a very high level of incidence of COVID-19 in the community,” said Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan.
“It is essential for everyone to protect themselves and others from infection.
“Every small action to limit the spread of this disease is vital, as we continue to experience a large volume of patients in hospital, up a third on this time last week.
“Remember that behind each hospital statistic and ICU figure is an individual, with family and friends, and a team of healthcare workers providing care to them in very difficult circumstances.
“The best way we can continue to support our health service and protect each other is to continue to follow the public health advice as best we can – staying home and isolating if we have symptoms, avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated spaces, opening windows, wearing facemasks and working from home where possible.
“Our most important layer of protection throughout this pandemic continues to be the COVID-19 vaccine.
“The vaccine programme is now open to all children between 5 -11 years of age and we know that the benefits of vaccinating children far outweigh the risks.
“Most children will experience a very mild form of this disease, for a small few, they may become severely ill.
“The COVID-19 vaccines are doing an excellent job of preventing severe illness and disease in those who are fully vaccinated.
“Getting your child vaccinated is a decision between you and your child.
“I would encourage all parents and guardians to discuss this update to our vaccination programme with your child and ensure that they are aware that vaccination is available to them.
“I would also encourage you to engage with the trusted health advice available on the HSE website, and with your own family clinician if you have any concerns about bringing your child for this vaccine.”
Main Image Credit: Julien Behal Photography / RollingNews.ie
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