Probing the legality of imposing hotel quarantining 

The number of people who might be subjected to mandatory hotel quarantine is comparatively tiny compared to the entire population of Ireland, who are currently subjected to severe restrictions of their rights, writes Conor O'Mahony

Signs for antigen covid testing at Terminal 2 at Dublin Airport. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA

During Leaders’ Questions in the Dáil, the leader of the opposition Mary Lou McDonald suggested to the Taoiseach that a system of mandatory hotel quarantine is “necessary” and “a no-brainer.” 

The Taoiseach responded that there are “compelling legal reasons” why it is not possible to introduce such a system, related to the constitutional protection of personal liberties and freedoms.