The HSE’s message to those aged 70 and over to continue to “cocoon” is being championed by a well known Co. Wexford man.

Former Junior Minister and Wexford TD Hugh Byrne is remaining within the confines of his home, near Fethard on Sea on the Hook peninsula area and is urging those of his generation to do likewise.

Hugh is a staunch GAA member and is involved with his local club St. Mogue’s. Born in 1943, Hugh played inter county hurling for Kildare when working there as a teacher in the early 1960s and went on to play senior championship football with Wexford for a number of years. First elected to Dáil Éireann in 1981, Hugh served 18 years as a TD and another three as a Senator. Hugh Byrne served as Minister of State for Marine and Natural resources from 1997 until 2002.

Hugh has two daughters working at the frontline of the Covid 19 healthcare efforts in London – one at Whipps Cross and the other at the recently installed Nightingale Hospital. Hugh says it’s important to push the message that a little sacrifice on the part of older people can deliver a great result at a time when the country faces a challenge.

Hugh feels it is very important now, that people not take their eye off the ball:

“We’ve been doing a good job up to now. I am one of 12 living siblings, 10 of whom are over 70. I want all of my them to live as long as they can. I would urge people, however, not to become complacent. If everyone continues to do their bit, the reward is great.”

“People of my age can lead by example. I know it is hard, especially when missing things like family, meeting people and being involved in other social activities. What we are being asked to do, however, is to remain confined for the duration of this public health emergency – for ours and society’s good.”

“We owe it to our frontline workers, whatever their task and who are putting their lives on the line for all of us, to do the simple things we are asked to do. No one anywhere would want to be so careless as to cause the death of a family member, or friend or indeed anyone. This is a time for generosity through sacrifice.”

“Wexford County Council, in association with the HSE/South East Community Healthcare and a range of other statutory and voluntary agencies, have a Community Response Forums help line in place and anyone can phone (053) 919 6000 if they’re in need of any help to stay at home. In my own area, as with so many others, the local GAA club also has a team of volunteers in place to help out.”

“I look forward to the other side of this, where we could all enjoy walks around the Hook peninsula and the like – when we will all have played our part in ensuring public safety the meantime.”