Navan Hospital not treating any confirmed or suspected Covid-19 cases

There was wonderful news for Meath this week with no confirmed or suspected cases of Covid -19 being treated in Our Lady's hospital Navan last night (Monday).

There were no confirmed cases in ICU beds in Our Lady Of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda although there was one suspected case in ICU and three cases being treated in the hospital altogether

The news comes as the HSE announced last night one further death nationally from the virus, bringing the total umber of deaths to 1,650.

There were 77 new cases confirmed, bringing the national total to 25,062.

Meath has now had a total of 796 confirmed cases.

Meanwhile, Our Lady’s Hospital has set up a new dedicated telephone line that can be used by anyone seeking information regarding their appointment in the hospital.

The new number is 046-9078767 and operates Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm.

“Once you ring you’ll be put through to a member of staff who will deal with your query. If no staff member is available you’ll be asked to leave your name and contact details, and a member of staff will then return your call as soon as possible,” said a spokesperson.

Cllr Darren O’Rourke will question witnesses at the Special Covid Committee tomorrow as to whether a traffic light system for travel can be introduced here as a means of safely opening up foreign travel.

Deputy O’Rourke and his colleague Deputy Pearse Doherty, will also question why the Public Health Passenger Locator Form was only made mandatory last week and how long the 14-day quarantine procedure will be in place.

“They say thousands of people are unsure if it is safe to plan for summer holidays abroad, given recent conflicting public messages, and want guidance and reassurance.

As the number of new cases continue to fall, Cllr Damien O’Reilly has called on Meath County Council to relax their rules and allow cafes and restaurants to put tables and chairs on the space outside them.

He says this could provide a much needed boost for struggling businesses, particularly during this spell of good weather.

“I see Limerick city has started a trial allowing restaurants to provide street tables in a bid to help their business, which has been so badly affected by the Covid-19 restrictions. I believe Meath should be following this example – all efforts have to be made to help our cafes, restaurants and small shops recover from this massive hit.

“I am calling on Meath Co Council to relax their ruled around street furniture and see how the initiative fares.”