Politics

Taoiseach will nominate chair for long-awaited Covid evaluation committee

Simon Harris was speaking on way into meeting in Government Buildings

Taoiseach Simon Harris speaking to members of the media outside Government Building in Dublin Photograph: Niall Carson/PA Wire
Taoiseach Simon Harris speaking to members of the media outside Government Building in Dublin Photograph: Niall Carson/PA Wire
Harry McGee
Wed Oct 30 2024 - 12:45

Taoiseach Simon Harris will propose to Cabinet that a chair be nominated for the long-awaited Covid evaluation committee.

Speaking in advance of the meeting in Government Buildings, Mr Harris confirmed that he will nominate a person today for Cabinet approval. He said the person was Irish.

“It’s important we look back and look at what went well during the COVID pandemic, and also learn lessons in terms of what can go better, in terms of preparedness for future pandemics, and lessons from that very, very difficult period of time in our country,” said Mr Harris.

Asked when the Covid inquiry would start, Mr Harris said the process would be started by the appointment of the char and a panel. He said that the chair would be independent and how the inquiry worked would be a matter for that persona and the panel. He said it was important to look at different models of inquiry done elsewhere.

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“I think the Covid evaluation is really important. I have said since the start of the pandemic, right through to now, that it’ll be really important if we look back at that period of time. Covid had such a serious impact on everybody’s lives in Ireland and somebody lives across the world, and devastating impacts for some people.

“Decisions were made. They were made in real time. They were made according to the best information available to them. But even looking back now, it’s important that we look at what could have happened better, what could be done later in the future. So I think it’s a really important process, and it’s one that I supported and wanted to see happen for quite a period of time,” he said.

Mr Harris also expressed his sympathy and solidarity to the people of Spain following the devastating impacts of flash floods in the east of that country, which has already resulted in over 60 deaths.

Harry McGee

Harry McGee

Harry McGee is a Political Correspondent with The Irish Times