Council Chairman appeals to residents to help reduce spread of Covid-19
13th October 2020
The Chairman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Chris Smyth, has issued an appeal for people to follow public health advice to help stop the spread of Covid-19 in the district and to prevent further restrictions. In a video message recorded on Monday, Councillor Smyth said;
“The numbers of Covid-19 cases are continuing to rise, at an alarming rate across Northern Ireland and the Fermanagh and Omagh District is not immune,” said Councillor Smyth.
“While Fermanagh and Omagh had one of the lowest instances of positive cases earlier in the pandemic, this is no longer the position, and we are seeing a very significant rise in positive cases in our District.
“This is worrying for everyone and in particular we must think about the impact on our health service, our essential workers and people who are sick for other reasons and need to access healthcare. We are truly blessed by the dedication bravery and skill of our healthcare.”
Citing Professor Ronan O’Hare, Assistant Medical Director at South West Acute Hospital, Enniskillen, Councillor Smyth expressed his concern that the increased number of cases will impact negatively on the elderly and vulnerable patients leading to excessive pressure on the hospital system.
Councillor Smyth added;
“Now more than ever, we all must act together to protect ourselves, our family, our friends and our communities and everyone must play their part in stopping the spread of this virus.
“I know that the past number of months have provided all of us with great challenges.
However, we must all continue to follow the public health advice to keep ourselves and each other safe and save lives.”
Concluding his remarks, Councillor Smyth said;
“We can stop the spread of Covid-19 by washing your hands regularly, keeping a safe distance from others, wearing a face covering where required, and limiting your social contacts.
“We are stronger together. Please keep safe and follow the public health guidelines in place – they are there to protect you and your loved ones at this time.”