Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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1138. To ask the Minister for Health if persons over 70 years of age that have received the full vaccination can return to work immediately if their position is still in place. [17339/21]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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On 30^thMarch, the Government update its advice for those who are fully vaccinated. Those aged over 70 years and over and others at increased risk of severe illness should exercise judgement regarding the extent to which they engage with others and in activities outside home. But in general, the guidance for these cohorts is now aligned with that for the general population, including for activities such as using public transport and shopping. It is advised that anyone in this cohort should speak to their employer if they wish to return to work. It is important to emphasis that the current guidance remains that everyone should continue to work from home if they can do so and this also applies to those that are fully vaccinated. As the Deputy will be aware, fully vaccinated asymptomatic people are now also being advised that they can visit other fully vaccinated asymptomatic people in a household setting without wearing masks or physical distancing. If either person has any symptoms of COVID-19, visiting should not take place.

The HPSC is now reviewing its guidance for those most vulnerable to the severe impacts of COVID-19 that have been fully vaccinated. This guidance will be available on the HPSC website shortly ()

The HSE is also reviewing relevant policy and guidance for healthcare workers who are fully vaccinated including with regard to return to work for those who are medically vulnerable and who have been cocooning.

It is important to note that full protection is not in place if it has been less than 2 weeks since the second vaccine dose.

Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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1139. To ask the Minister for Health if he plans to change the policy on amending the return to work of staff members (details supplied) that are classed as highly vulnerable in cases in which they have been fully vaccinated and are willing to return to work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17343/21]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the deputy directly, as soon as possible.