This evening Taoiseach Leo Varadkar addressed the nation.
As St. Patrick's Day is drawing to a close, Varadkar spoke to the nation to tell us to continue our efforts and to inform us of what more is to come.
The top points from the Taoiseach's address:
- He says it’s a Patrick’s Day like no other and says we’re in the middle of a pandemic and we can’t stop the virus but we can slow it.
- Varadkar said the current restrictions are likely to continue beyond March 29th and into the summer
- He said at some point older and vulnerable people will be advised to remain at home for several weeks in what will be called "cocooning". He said there are plans being put in place for this so nobody is left feeling lonely and that those people are regularly checked.
- People are being asked to come together by staying apart. He encouraged people to continue practicing social distancing and hygiene etiquette
- Varadkar praised healthcare workers saying "not all superheroes wear capes, some wear scrubs and gowns". He also said "Never will so many ask so much from so few"
- Speaking about the growth in cases over the coming weeks, Varadkar reiterated that by the end of the month it is expected that 15,000 cases will be in Ireland and even more in the weeks after that. He said "This is the calm before the storm before the surge".
- The Taoiseach addressed the youth of the country saying he was sure they were feeling bored by now and some may even want to go back to school but to keep up with their school work and to think that this is a difficult time for their parents and grandparents.
- He encouraged people to get their facts from reputable sources and to not spread fake messages online. He said "fear is a virus" and to take care of our mental health as well as our bodies.
- He said the virus will continue to have an effect on jobs and our economy. For those who have lost jobs or have had hours reduced, he reassured that they will receive support as soon as possible and help and understanding from utilities and banks.
- He said the damage to the economy will be significant, the bills will be enormous and may take years to pay off.
