The Government has said the mandatory wearing of face masks hasn't been ruled out.
The government has launched a new campaign to encourage people to wear face coverings where social distancing is difficult.
Ads will be rolled out on TV, radio and outdoors advising people on how and where to wear them.
We should use a face mask if & where we can. Protection & respect for others is important as we move out & about in greater numbers. Wash hands too & keep social distance. #Covid_19 pic.twitter.com/LwpsEaveZA
— Charlie Flanagan (@CharlieFlanagan) June 15, 2020
"Really asking the Irish people, just like they adopted the handwashing techniques, the cough etiquette, the two-metre rule and this is the next big step we need to take now," said Health Minister Simon Harris.
Taoiseach @LeoVaradkar wears a face mask on @dublinbusnews as the government launches a new awareness campaign encouraging people to wear face coverings on public transport and in shops where social distancing is difficult 😷 pic.twitter.com/E0Xz4fazoq
— Kim Buckley (@KiiimBuckley) June 15, 2020
"Just getting into the habit of getting a face covering, wearing it properly and bringing it with you when you leave the house."
We’ve launched a new campaign today with a simple message: if you are in situations where social distancing is difficult, such as on public transport or in shops, please wear a face covering. It’s also a good idea to wear one when visiting someone who is vulnerable to #Covid19 pic.twitter.com/zMxQmDuj5w
— Leo Varadkar (@LeoVaradkar) June 15, 2020
Meanwhile, the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said, "we have given consideration to making it mandatory - we don't rule that out. But there are real difficulties with that. Some people have phobias, for example, some people have breathing difficulties - there are lots of different reasons you wouldn't make it madatory."
Ads will be rolled out on TV, radio and outdoors advising people on how and where to wear them.
