Test, trace and protect system "failing," according to chair of Stormont health committee

By PA Reporter

The coronavirus test, trace and protect system in Northern Ireland is “failing”, the chair of Stormont’s health committee said.

In a recent week in November, 94% of close contacts of cases were traced, Health Minister Robin Swann said.

Colm Gildernew called for an overhaul of the system.

Sinn Fein’s health committee chair said: “What we need to do is increase our test and tracing capacity, and we need to recruit more contact tracers at a quicker level.

“Will the minister commit to a new strategy to replace the failing test, trace and protect system?”

The minister responded to questions at the Assembly.

He said: “Even with high numbers coming into our test, trace and protect system they were achieving high levels.”

He said the system needed support from people following the public health advice.

“Test, trace and protect works best when you have a low number of cases.

“That needs to be our strategy, not how we increase, test, trace and protect, but how we reduce the people with Covid in our community.”

He listed a series of measures put in place ahead of the second wave, including creation of a step-down facility for those recovering at Whiteabbey in Co Antrim which is due to open soon.

“What I can never have planned was for the scientific and medical advice given to the Executive being blocked because only when the spread of the virus is minimised can we hope to reduce the Covid-19 pressures on our health service and that is what is really needed and it is needed now.”

He said non-Covid outpatient activity was 73% greater in October than during the first wave of infection in April.

Mr Swann said: “That is because of our surge and rebuild plans.

“That is the truth of the matter it is testament to the dedication of our health and social care staff.”