Dr. Anne Kigallen expects people to wear face coverings in Derry hospitals and health facilities

Dr. Kilgallen told members of the Stormont Health Committee that there is emerging evidence of the effectiveness of coverings in protecting people against infection with SARS-CoV-2.

While the wearing of protective coverings over the nose and mouth is not compulsory it is recommended in all trust facilities.

“We do expect visitors to our site to wear face coverings. We don’t have an enforcement regime,” she said.

At present the government recommends that people cover their faces if they are going to be indoors for short periods in enclosed spaces where social distancing is not possible. Face coverings must be worn at all times on public transport.

Dr. Kilgallen said face coverings were not suitable for a minority of individuals. However, it is good public health practice for the majority of the population.

“We recognise a small number of people cannot tolerate face coverings but in general we do expect people who come onto our sites to wear face coverings because there is an emerging evidence about the value of that,” she remarked.

The Executive last week agreed to legislate to make coverings mandatory in a number of indoor settings. This will not be implemented immediately. A publicity campaign has been launched to encourage their use. Legislation will follow on August 20 if uptake is insufficient.