People have become complacent about disinfectant procedures outside homes, farms and businesses, the Fine Gael TD for Longford-Roscommon, Mr Denis Naughten, claimed yesterday.
"People in rural communities must ensure that disinfectant is renewed regularly and that strict safety procedures continue to be maintained," said Mr Naughten, who is a microbiologist. Disinfectant mats had been allowed to dry out, he said, and some, especially at farm entrances, had become heavily soiled and needed to be replaced.
All national parks and outdoor heritage centres should be closed immediately, Fine Gael's spokesman on arts, heritage, Gaeltacht and the islands, Mr Dinny McGinley, said yesterday.
He appealed to the public to co-operate with Duchas and heritage staff throughout the State.