An Expert Group monitoring the spread of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) is to meet next week to discuss its possible effects on the Special Olympics.
A spokesman for the Department of Health, which set up the group, told ireland.comthat no decision on measures to be taken in relation to the Special Olympics had been decided.
"The Expert Group that is monitoring the spread of the virus is meeting every three or four days and a special meeting will be held next week," he said.
"However, the Department doesn't want to make decisions on restrictions, or any other measures yet, as it still doesn't know whether SARS is spreading, or whether it is in remission".
The Expert Group is taking advice from the National Disease Surveillance Centre and the World Health Organization.
The Fine Gael leader in the Seanad, Mr Brian Hayes, called on the Government and the organisers of the Special Olympics to outline exactly what health and safety measures would be put in place to prevent the spread of SARS in Ireland.
"Ireland needs, as a matter of urgency, an effective strategy to prevent SARS getting a foothold in this country," he said.
"That strategy should include a travel ban, except under strict quarantine procedures, on people coming into Ireland from the worst infected areas.
"It should also include a full risk assessment of the advisability of proceeding with the Special Olympics in the present circumstances," Mr Hayes said.
