Face coverings now mandatory on public transport

It is now a legal requirement to wear a face covering on public transport.

The new regulations were signed by Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly on Friday. They provide, that from today, Monday, members of the public shall not, without reasonable excuse, travel by public transport without wearing a face covering.

Reasonable excuse includes where a person cannot put one on, wear or remove a face covering because of any physical or mental illness, impairment or disability or without severe distress, because of a need to communicate with another person who has difficulties communicating, if a person removes the face covering to provide emergency assistance or to provide care or assistance to a vulnerable person or if a person removes the face covering to take medication.

The regulations do not apply to children under the age of 13.

A passenger not wearing a face covering may be requested to do so, be refused entry to the public transport or may be requested to leave the vehicle.

A passenger must comply with these requests or with a refusal of entry. Failure to comply is an offence.

Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly said; “Mandatory wearing of face coverings on public transport will not only protect staff and passengers alike, but reinforce the need for all of us to embrace new habits during this pandemic. Physical distancing, hand washing, cough/sneeze etiquette and face coverings are small, individual measures that can make a significant difference to many lives.

“The wearing of face coverings in appropriate settings is a sign of solidarity to your friends and family, your health service and their staff who continue to be at the frontline of this crisis and solidarity to your country as we all continue in our efforts to suppress this disease.”

Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Ronan Glynn, said; “When wearing a face covering, ensure your hands are clean before putting on and removing. Do not touch the front of the covering, instead apply and remove the covering using the ear loops. If you require a number of coverings as you go about your day, store used coverings in a plastic, zip lock bag until you can wash them at 60 degrees.

“It is important to be aware that some members of the public are unable to wear face coverings due to health reasons or age and should not be criticised or judged for this.

“Ensure you are familiar with the appropriate use and disposal of face coverings through reputable sources such as gov.ie/health or hse.ie.”