A Sligo/Leitrim TD says Ireland is ‘dragging its heels’ in relation to the wider use of rapid antigen testing for COVID-19.
Rapid antigen samples, taken with a swab from the nose, do not need to go to a lab.
While the test results are quicker than the COVID-19 PCR test, they have some limitations.
Independent Deputy Marian Harkin said that while the test is not perfect, it is used by other countries as part of preparations for the return to international travel.
She says the response here to rapid antigen testing reminds her of an attitude among some people at the beginning of the pandemic about trusting the public to properly wear masks.
