Update from Secretary to College, Interim Chief Operating Officer and Director of College Health Service to staff and students
21 January 2022
Dear College community
We look forward to the beginning of semester 2 next week. As we enter a new phase with the easing of restrictions to be announced by the government this evening and the number of COVID-19 cases resulting in hospitalisation decreasing, there is light at the end of the tunnel. We will update you next week with any changes in College operations as a result of the government announcement.
COVID-19: symptoms, cases and contacts
We know that it can be difficult to keep up with the guidelines relating to Positive PCR or Antigen Tests and what to do if you are a close contact, so this is a helpful slide from Public Health here. More detailed information can be found here.
FFP2 masks
College is purchasing a limited quantity of FFP2 masks to give to certain cohorts of staff and students for specific circumstances, for example if they fall into the category of close contacts who have to come onto campus. A FFP2 mask is a multi-layered mask and has similar filtration values as a medical grade mask. These masks will be distributed when available to students with a valid ID card via the SU Shop and UniCoV locations and to staff in Schools and Research Institutes via the relevant School offices. Academic Services Division, Corporate Services Division and Financial Services Division will identify quantities they need, and all of the above parties should notify Estates and Facilities via estatesandfacilities@tcd.ie who will arrange for their distribution.
COVID-19 self-declaration for special leave with pay
We would like to remind staff that if you are absent from work due to COVID-19 - either officially having a positive diagnosis, being a close contact, or having to restrict your movements - you need to complete a COVID-19 self-declaration form to avail of special leave with pay. An updated version of this form is available here.
With best wishes for a successful semester 2.
Stay safe. Stay well. Bígí slán agus sábháilte.
Kind regards, John Coman, Secretary to the College Seán Ó Comáin, Rúnaí an Choláiste Orla Cunningham, Interim Chief Operating Officer Orla Ní Chuinneagáin, An Príomhoifigeach Oibriúcháin Eatramhach
Dr David McGrath, Director, College Health Service An Dr Daithi Mac Craith, Stiúrthóir, Seirbhís Sláinte an Choláiste