Nphet sidelined as Government set to defy advice and press on with rapid antigen tests

Expert group to be appointed to fast-track roll-out

Fast-track: The tests are in widespread use around the world as countries gradually reopen their economies. Photo: AP

Philip Ryan and Hugh O’Connell

The Government is to side-line the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) and press on with the use  of rapid antigen tests to screen people for Covid-19.

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly has decided to by-pass Nphet and establish a new expert group to fast-track the roll-out of rapid tests to assist in the reopening of the country.