‘Remain calm and avoid panic buying’ – outgoing Waterford minister John Halligan

Waterford Minister of State John Halligan has urged the public to remain calm, avoid panic-buying and adhere to guidelines set out by the health authorities as the Government struggles to contain the spread of the coronavirus.
The outgoing minister also asked people to check in on elderly neighbours who may at particular risk should they contract the virus.
Mr Halligan said: “The Government has spoken to retailers who have given assurances that stocks are being replenished all the time. There is no need for people to be stockpiling food and toiletries as this puts greater pressure on those who may be less well able to acquire goods. It will also inevitably lead to a large amount of food going to waste.”
Minister Halligan (pictured below) also called on retailers and businesses to ensure that hand-sanitiser is available to customers.
He added: “There is also an onus on retailers to make sure that hand-sanitation gels or wipes are available to people. I have visited some large retailers who, so far, have failed to provide these to customers. These measures are essential if we are to try and halt the spread of the coronavirus.”
People are with concerns or queries are asked to visit: http://www.hse.ie/conditions/coronavirus