People have been taking to Twitter in outrage at the fact that there seem to be no PCR tests available in the Dublin area for those wishing to test before Christmas.
Whether you are due to travel, have symptoms, or simply wanted one to reassure high-risk family and friends, it seems as though you’ll have to be prepared to go farther afield.
The Irish Mirror checked up on a number of sites that offer Covid PCR testing and came up empty trying to find any available appointments.
From Randox to Gosafe, Easytest, and 24doc, there didn't seem to be one test available before Christmas Day.
Among those complaining of the lack of availability was one woman from Dublin who said: “My niece needs a PCR test and there’s not an appointment to be got in Dublin.
“Not a good sign. While her mam will make sure she’s isolating until she can get one, I’d be doubtful that young folk will be forgoing Christmas socialising because they CAN'T get tested.”
Another explained: “I'm at home with what I think is a cold. I'm not leaving the house but can't get an appointment for a PCR test in Dublin 2 days running to rule out Covid.
“What else can I do bar antigen test myself to reassure myself I don't have it?”
A third wrote: “Just spent the past hour searching online for an available PCR test…there’s nothing. Happy f***ing Christmas.”
Another questioned: “There is no availability for PCR tests in Dublin, Meath or Kildare. What are the options??”
Among the hundreds of posts on Twitter was another saying her daughter needed to see a doctor, however, they won’t see patients without a test beforehand. She wrote: “No Covid tests available anywhere in Dublin!!!
“I've been checking since last night. My 4 year old needs to see a doctor, but the doctor won't see him without a test first.... there are NO tests available!!!!”
The HSE told the Irish Mirror: "All 41 test centres will be open on Christmas Eve, with an earlier closing time. 25 test centres will open on Christmas Day with reduced hours. 36 test centres will be open on St Stephen's Day. Please note that all are appointments only and you can book online.
"Testing slots that are held for GPs or close contact referrals may also be released over the course of the day so we advise people to check for testing appointments regularly.
"If anyone gets a positive antigen test result they should self-isolate (stay in your room) and get a PCR test. If there are no test appointments available, they should check back later. Appointments may become available later in the day.
"New advice for close contacts is also now in place since Wednesday, December 22 where all close contacts, who are asymptomatic will be able to request antigen tests."
