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TDs and Ministers have been encouraged to wear a face covering while they are in the D\u00e1il at Leinster House or the Convention Centre.<\/p>\nTDs and Ministers have been encouraged to wear a face covering while they are in the D\u00e1il at Leinster House or the Convention Centre.<\/p>\n
D\u00e1il chairman Se\u00e1n \u00d3 Feargha\u00edl has asked public representatives to lead by example during the pandemic and wear face coverings to suppress the possible spread of the Covid-19.<\/p>\n
It comes as the wearing of face coverings became mandatory in shops in the Republic of Ireland on Monday.<\/p>\n
Members are asked to wear them while in the D\u00e1il chamber and in committee rooms, not while making a contribution or speaking to the house, with effect from Monday.<\/p>\n
In a note sent to TDs on Monday morning, Mr \u00d3 Feargha\u00edl wrote that \u201cthe return to normal levels of parliamentary activity following the formation of Government requires extra vigilance and adherence\u201d to public health measures aimed at stopping the spread of Covid-19.<\/p>\n
He said: \u201cThe wearing of a face covering can play an important part in indoor settings where it is not always possible to adhere to two meter social distancing.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cTherefore, I am strongly encouraging Members to wear a face covering in shared spaces and circulation areas, where at all possible, with effect from today.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cI would also encourage Members to wear face coverings in the Chamber and in Committee rooms, when members are not speaking or making a contribution.\u201d<\/p>\n
The note includes a link containing guidance on the safe wearing of face coverings.<\/p>\n
\u201cI would also encourage Members to wear face coverings in the Chamber and in Committee rooms, when not speaking or making a contribution.<\/p>\n
\u201cMembers are requested to use their own face coverings; however the Facilities Unit will have reusable and disposable masks available if required,\u201d the advice reads.<\/p>\n
The Clerk of the D\u00e1il will arrange for the issue of a similar notice to all parliamentary political staff and other users of the buildings such as journalists and advisers.<\/p>\n
The note adds members are requested to use their own face coverings, but that reusable and disposable masks will be made available to them if required.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis measure is an important step for the protection of Members and staff.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt is consistent with the most recent public health advice, and I look forward to your operation in this regard,\u201d the advice adds.<\/p>\n