NPHET's modelling didn't take changes to vaccine rollout into account

NPHET's modelling of the direction Covid could take over the coming months didn't take into account changes to the vaccine rollout. 

It means the models cabinet used to make a decision on delaying re-opening of indoor dining were out of date. 

They didn't include the move to allow younger people to access the AstraZeneca and Johnson and Johnson jabs. 

Professor Bill Tormey, a consultant in Beaumont Hospital, says NPHET should be axed.

"Given their record of a year and a bit ago when virtually every state agency failed, it is way beyond time that NPHET was just simply stood down.

"The Government should get a few guys who have an element of cop on, and let's open things and also let's massively increase any vaccine we have and stick it in somebody's arm."

Meanwhile people who repeatedly cancel their vaccine appointment will no longer be offered a dose from today.

The HSE has started implementing the policy for those who refuse 3 appointments.

It says the measure will increase efficiency at vaccine centres and ensure everyone who wants a jab gets one as soon as possible.

 

 

 

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