Virgin Media viewers have been hitting out online after Micheal Martin’s appearance on Virgin Media’s The Tonight Show.
Among the main topics of conversation was the potential for new restrictions in Ireland either over the Christmas period or in the New Year.
The Taoiseach explained that he cannot rule out further measures because the virus has shown time and time again that it can throw up surprises.
With the uncertainty around the new Omicron variant, he said “We are hearing so far is that it does have an advantage over delta in terms of its infectiousness and its capacity to infect, but also, but that it may be less severe in its impact, but we don’t know that for sure.”
He added that the current booster rollout will provide protection for people, as well as lowering the numbers in hospitals and in the ICU.
“I do know that they are now saying that the mRNA vaccines will give you protection against severe disease or illness from Omicron,'' he said.
“But that said, I think we do need more data and I think the key message really is that vaccination does help you in terms of avoiding severe illness, hospitalisation, or admission to ICU.”
After explaining his position on the potential for new measures, Claire Brock further probed Mr. Martin on the matter, and it seems to have rubbed viewers the wrong way.
One person took to Twitter to say; “Going around in circles trying to catch Michael Martin out by repeating the same question about ‘further restrictions’ when he’s repeatedly said they’re not planning on it. Obviously, he can’t rule them out like.”
Another wrote: “Micheal Martin being interrupted time and time again….for the same question. Clear restrictions will be brought in if needed, but they’re not considering yet.”
A third person added: “I’m more confused now than I was before watching. No restrictions… but maybe restrictions.. Before Christmas… after Christmas…what?”
