Longford-Westmeath Minister of State for Planning and Local Government, Deputy Peter Burke, has urged all his constituents who need assistance with grocery shopping, prescriptions or general supplies, to call the Community Call number in Westmeath which is 1800 805 816.
Burke, whose remit includes local authorities, stated that staff are readily available to take calls in such regard.
“Unfortunately, we find ourselves again in level five restrictions due to the persistent presence of the virus circulating in our community. I note the numbers in Westmeath over the last few days have increased acutely. The advice has come again that those who are medically vulnerable or of an older age could be more susceptible to Covid-19 and should limit their movements where possible.
“We saw how our GAA clubs, how our neighbourhoods and our County Council co-ordinating this came to the aid of many during March and April and I can confirm that this phone line continues to be monitored. Staff are on standby to fetch shopping, prescriptions or supplies for those who are not comfortable with leaving their house or who have been advised to stay at home by their doctor or the guidelines.
“The advice remains for us all to stay at home, unless for essential purposes and I know this is extremely difficult. I’m thinking especially at this time for those who have children or adults with a disability in their households who may not have services available to them or a routine, for those with relatives in nursing homes subject to visitor restrictions, for those who may live alone, for those who have children who now must be taken care of while trying to work from home and for those who have lost their employment due to the restrictions.
“Each individual’s circumstances are different, and the imposition of level five restrictions takes a toll on us all. I would point individuals in the direction of the new text number, 50808, www.yourmentalhealth.ie or the HSE website if you need further support for your mental health.
“My office remains fully operational behind closed doors so please email [email protected] or call 044 9385044 if you need any assistance. I am hopeful that these restrictions will bring cases down over the coming period and the vaccine will provide the light at the end of the tunnel that we all need,” Deputy Burke concluded
