Irish Examiner view: State bodies must lead by example

Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group chairman Professor Philip Nolan has warned that there may need to be more interventions if transmission levels rise again in January and February. Picture: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin.

Even as we re-enter Level 5 restrictions, Philip Nolan, chair of Nphet's Epidemiological Modelling Advisory Group is looking ahead, warning that we all need to be on our best behaviour until a coronavirus vaccine is found.

But best behaviour works both ways, and must include best practice by the institutions of the State as well as by the general public. Where, for instance, was the evidence of best behaviour and best practice when the Department of Education ordered a school in Kerry with one of the highest ever Covid-19 incidence rates to stay open?