We must redouble our efforts against the coronavirus- Burke

(Above) Deputy Peter Burke with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar.

We must “redouble” our efforts to slow the spread of coronavirus and stop the health system becoming overwhelmed, a local TD has said.

Speaking this week, Deputy Peter Burke praised the people of Westmeath for the sacrifices they have made since the start of the crisis.

“The vast majority of people are obeying the rules and I commend people for this sacrifice, as I know how hard it is to  keep young children cooped up and away from their friends at this time.  I feel for parents of children with learning difficulties and behavioural problems, but it is for these and other risk categories, we must redouble our efforts and commitment to the cause.  There are also worries for the elderly who may live alone and are now cut off from the outside world. 

“Communities are coming together to provide support to these people.  The point we must drive home is this:  If you look after yourself, restrict movement and follow advice, you will ultimately protect the most vulnerable in society. Protection from COVID-19 is literally in all our hands”.

Commenting on the raft of new measures and legislation published and implemented late last week, the Mullingar TD said government ministers are working around the clock to support out citizens to the best of their ability at this time.

“I welcome that Gardai will increase interventions where venues and people are not adhering to recommended physical distancing.  There will be an increased presence of Park Rangers and Gardaí in parks and public places to ensure physical distancing is being observed.  In Ireland, since independence, we have always had policing by consent rather than coercion. It is not our intention to change that now. I would urge people to comply and not force our Gardaí to intervene and make their job more difficult. The new powers afforded to the Gardaí will be used sparingly and only when necessary."