Health Minister Stephen Donnely has said that 14 of the 19 maternity units in the country are complying with the instruction that partners should be allowed to attend antenatal appointments. Earlier this week the health minister had expressed his frustration at the refusal of some maternity hospitals to allow partners to attend during scans and birth. Any maternity units that do not believe that is appropriate or safe at the moment must provide a case back. Rapid antigen testingAsked about the slow rollout of rapid antigen testing, Mr Donnelly said it is important not to overstate their value. Speaking amid clear opposition and concern about their use from chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan, Mr Donnelly said: "I am a supporter of rapid testing.

Source: Irish Examiner May 12, 2021 10:59 UTC