August 12, 2020

Ireland to test meat plant workers

Ireland Taoiseach Michael Martin said the country has drawn up new plans to combat the COVID-19 pandemic over the next nine months, including weekly COVID-19 tests for meat workers in the country, the Irish Mirror reported.

In a discussion with Dr. Ronan Glynn, acting chief medical officer and other ministers, it was decided that meat plant workers will be tested weekly for COVID-19.

The first group to be tested are workers from meat plants at Kildare, Offaly and Laois counties. Thereafter, COVID-19 tests will be rolled out to other facilities in the country.

The Taoiseach said once COVID-19 tests have been conducted throughout the country, it will gradually progress to fortnight tests.

He added that a comprehensive protocol has been adopted by meat plants, but said there is a need for weekly COVID-19 tests.

Meat plants around the world have reported COVID-19 outbreaks, disrupting meat production and pushing meat retail prices up due to low stock.

-      Irish Mirror