Na h-Eileanan an Iar MP Angus Brendan MacNeil (pictured) calls on NHS Western Isles to offer testing for Covid-19 to all returning seafarers and oil workers when they return from their period at sea.
Commenting Angus MacNeil said:
“I have emailed the Chief Executive of NHS Western Isles, Gordon Jamieson and Chairman Ian Burgess to ask them to use their available capacity to offer tests to oil workers and seafarers as standard on their return to the islands.
“It would seem a sensible and responsible approach to make sure that no asymptomatic carriers are coming in.
“From soundings with oil workers and seafarers, as well as their families, there is great support for this.
“It would provide, not least, peace of mind but to ensure Covid-19 is kept at bay in our communities.
“We can clearly see what has happened in other countries nearby, to our north west with Faroes and Iceland where they have greater testing and greater success against Covid-19.
“At the moment we have an opportunity to do likewise and to keep on top of this to be well prepared in case any second wave returns.
“I hope NHS Western Isles takes the opportunity to offer this, I am sure it would be welcomed by many of those returning home after working away for a period of weeks.”
