Coronavirus Northern Ireland: Newry MLA calls for increase in COVID-19 testing
SDLP Public Health spokesperson Justin McNulty MLA pressed the deputy First Minister, Michelle O’Neill MLA on the urgent need to increase the numbers of people being tested for COVID-19.
Speaking in the Assembly, the Newry and Armagh MLA said, “I welcomed the attendance of the First and deputy First Minister in the Assembly chamber today, to update MLAs on the fight against the Coronavirus.
“I joined other MLAs in thanking them for their strong and compassionate leadership.
“It is clear that the entire Executive is united in wanting to halt the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the harm it causes our people.
“That unity is very welcome,” he continued.
“I took the opportunity today to raise with the deputy First Minister the issue of testing.
“It is my view that we urgently need to increase the amount of tests we are conducting, particularly for our health service workers, who are most at risk.
“Nobody doubts the hard work and professionalism of our health service and its leaders, but it beggars belief that we are not testing those with symptoms.
“The World Health Organisation has been very clear that the best way to flatten the curve and reduce the spread of the virus is by testing.”
The Newry MLA added, “I was very glad that the deputy First Minister agreed with my call and confirmed the Executive would be seeking to ramp up testing in the coming days.”
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