A Cork TD says producing PPE in Ireland will ensure supply and provide a boost to local economies.
Sinn Féin's Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire is calling on the Government to work with business and workers to manufacture as much PPE as possible in Ireland.
The HSE says the cost of Personnel Protective Equipment could reach as much as €1 billion a year.
Speaking to RedFM News, Deputy Ó Laoghaire says it would be unwise to rely on imports given the pressure the economy is under.
"I am calling on the government to work with business and to work with workers and trade unions to ensure as much PPE as possible is produced in Ireland.
"One, it's a secure source for the HSE, for our frontline workers, for our medical staff.
"Two, it will be a boost to local economies at a time when they're under severe pressure, and will keep more people at work or put them back at work, and keep money going into people's households."
