A CONSTRUCTION SITE in Dublin has been temporarily closed after more than 20 workers tested positive for Covid-19.
Acting Chief Medical Officer Ronan Glynn confirmed the news during a coronavirus press briefing on Monday evening.
According to the Irish Times, the construction site in question is understood to be a hotel and apartment complex on Townsend Street.
In a statement, the construction company, John Paul Construction, said that initially just one member of staff tested positive for the virus, but after a series of follow-up tests, more positive results came back.
"Following confirmation that a staff member on one of our construction sites in Dublin had tested positive for Covid-19, comprehensive testing has identified a number of additional positive tests," the statement read.
"We have followed the specific advice of the HSE and the Health and Safety Authority at all times in relation to this matter and are assisting the HSE in arranging further tests as required.
"We have temporarily closed the site as advised by the HSE.
"The health, safety and wellbeing of those working with us and the communities in which we operate is our top priority and we wish those affected a speedy recovery."
Dr Glynn said he wasn't aware of any hospitalisation connected with the cases, but described it as the "first significant cluster on a construction site we've had to date."
He added that a small number of other clusters had been identified among staff in retail shops, and warned that public not to drop their guard with regards to social distancing when they head back to work, even if they're surrounded by people they're comfortable and familiar with.
