Deputy Verona Murphy has warned of the potential knock-on effect of the absence of an antigen testing system at our ports.

Last week the French government ruled that all Irish truck drivers needed to present a negative Covid test upon arrival in France. This requirement begins at 11pm tonight.

Independent TD for Wexford Verona Murphy, who called on the government to introduce antigen testing at our ports back in December, this morning describes the government’s approach as chaotic.

Speaking from Leinster House this morning, the Deputy said:

“From tomorrow, every truck driver leaving Ireland to arrive in France must have evidence of a negative Covid test, but the testing system hasn’t even been set up yet, and will result in chaos at the Ports. In December, I called for an antigen testing system to be put in place to keep the supply chain operating smoothly. I received a reply from the Taoiseach saying that they wouldn’t be doing the testing.”

Deputy Murphy continued:

“In typical fashion, the government did nothing until a crisis developed. I have made numerous attempts today to contact Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan and his department, but I have yet to receive any response”.

The Independent TD and former IRHA President concluded:

“This latest episode is typical of this government’s approach; reactive rather than proactive. A rapid testing system must be in place by tomorrow to ensure that our exports can reach their destination and to ensure that we have no disruption to ferry schedules. I have offered my assistance with the establishment of these testing sites as have the IRHA.