Taoiseach: Government finalising traffic light system for air travel

Rapid antigen tests  for Covid-19  being assessed by public health officials

A deserted check-in area at Cork Airport. Passenger testing forms part of the EU traffic light system that will come into effect early in November. Picture: Larry Cummins

New protocols to test and handle air passengers under the EU traffic light system will be in place by early November, Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said.

Speaking at the Cork Chamber Business Breakfast on Thursday, Mr Martin said rapid antigen tests that can test for Covid-19 in a matter of minutes were being assessed by public health officials and could form part of the 'weaponry' when lockdowns are eased.