SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 COVID -19 Research Report Table of Contents

Executive Summary 3 Key Findings 4 1 Results 5 1.1 Perceptions of COVID-19 13 1.2 Priorities in Governmental Decisions About COVID-19 Management 9 1.3 Personal COVID-19 Situation 11 1.4 COVID-19 Media Behaviour 15 2 Discussion 22 3 Conclusion 23 4 Appendix A: Irish COVID-19 Rules and Restrictions Timeline in 2020 25 5 Appendix B: Glossary 28 70% 64%

60%

50%

40% 31% 30%

20%

10% 4% 0% 1% 0% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Extremely Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar

Working in ‘gig economy’ (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) 0.2%

Working in temporary or seasonal job 1.2%

Self-employed 2.7%

Looking for paid work 4.8%

Unpaid family or household work 9.1%

Student 17.7%

Retired 20.1%

Working in paid employment 47.8%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%

40% 39%

34%

30%

20% 19%

11% 10%

2% 0% I have lost My work I have been None of I have my job hours laid off, these started furloughed have been situations working or my job has reduced been apply from home suspended

60% 54% 50%

40% 34%

30%

20% 19%

10% 5%

0% Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply treatment in the household affected

2.2% 1.9% Government and Politics 32.3% 40.3% 23.4% 0.8% 3.9% News in general 26.4% 39.1% 29.7%

Health news 16.9% 19.8% 50.6% 10% 2.6%

T Technology news 18.2% 18.4% 52.9% 6.5% 4.1%

1.9% 2.2%

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4%

1.2% 2.6% Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science News 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

1.9% 2.2%

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4%

1.2% 2.6%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

Unsure: 13.4 %

Yes: 11.6 %

No: 74.9 %

60% 57.7%

40% 38.6%

20%

3.7% 0% 0.5% 0% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I infected but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been had a confirmed test negative tested test

2% 3% 2% 70% Getting sick with the 64% 16% 77% Coronavirus (COVID-19) 60% can be serious.

50%

I will probably get sick with the Coronavirus 7% 36% 36% 40% 18% 3% (COVID-19). 31% 30%

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 20% 1% will not affect very many 25% 42% 18% 14% . people in my community 10% 4% 0% 1% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 0% 80% 90% 100% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree

Working in ‘gig economy’ 1% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) <

Working in temporary Coronavirus 1% or seasonal job (COVID-19) 6.7% 8.7% 10.4% 29.7% 44.5% vaccination when Self-employed 3% it is available.

Looking for paid work 5% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Unpaid family or household work 9% Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably Student 18%

Retired 20% 11.4% Perceived priorities Public opinion Working in paid employment 11.6% Favoured priorities 48%

20.3% 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% Minimizing disruption to normal life 33.2%

International 26.1% influences 12.6%

28.9% Political 40% 39% considerations 1.6% 34% 45.3% Scientific evidence 70% 30% 80.6% 64%

60% Economic 60.6%20% 19% considerations 33.9% 50% 11% Advice from 10% 67.5% medical doctors 40% 80.6% 2% 31% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%30% 60% 0% 70% 80% I have lost My work hours I have been laid None of I have started my job have been off, furloughed these working 20% reduced or my job has been situations from home suspended apply

10% 60% 4% 54% 0% 1% 0% 50% Irish Examiner 0.2% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Extremely Familiar40% Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar 34%

Breakingnews.ie 2.1% 30%

20% 19% British News 2.1%

10% 5%

TheJournal.ie 3.9% 0%Working in ‘gig economy’ 0.2% (e.g., rideshare,Have food postponed delivery) Experienced Mental health None of these major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply treatment. in the household. affected Irish Independent 5.8% Working in temporary or seasonal job 1.2%

Irish Times 11.5% Self-employed 2.7%

Other Looking for paid work 4.8% (please specify) 14.7%

Unpaid2% family2% or 9.1% RTÉ News Governmenthousehold work59.7% and Politics 32% 40% 23% 1% 4% 17.7% 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50%News in general55% Student 26% 39% 30%

Health news Retired17% 20% 50%20.1% 10% 3%

T Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4% Working in paid employment 47.8% 2% 2%

Art & style news 0% 32% 5% 10% 15% 40%20% 25% 30% 23%35% 40% 45% 49.8% 50% 1% 3% Popular 8% 52% Changeentertainment in paid news employment due36% to COVID-19- Self-reported familiarity with COVID-19 - “How39.6% 3% 40% “Do any of the following situations apply to you familiar are you with the Coronavirus (COVID-19)?” Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10% because of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation?” 4.5% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3% 70% 30% 64% 40% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%39%70% 80% 90% 100%

60% Much less interested Less interested About the34% same More interested Much more interested 20%

50% 30%

10% 40% 5.6% 3.1% 1.9% 31% 20% 19% 30% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News 20% (please specify) Times 11% 10% 1.9% 2.2%

10% Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4% 4% 2% 0% 1% 1.2% 2.6% 0% 0% Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Extremely entertainmentI have lost news My work I have been None of I have my job 3.1%hours laid off, these started Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar furloughed have been situations working Sport news 6.7% or my job has 52.8% 27.8% 9.6% reduced been apply from home suspended Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 4.5% 70% 3% 60% 64% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%54% 70% 80% 90% 100% Means60% of accessing the primary news source for information 50% Self-reported COVID-19 infection Working in ‘gig economy’ Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested on COVID-19(e.g., rideshare, - “How food do delivery) you usually0.2% access your primary news source?” status - “Have you ever had, or thought 40% 50% 60% you might have, the Coronavirus 60% Working in temporary 34% or seasonal job 1.2% (COVID-19)?” 30% 50%40% Self-employed 2.7% Unsure: 13% 39% 19% 40% 39% 39% 31%20% 30% Looking for paid work 29% 4.8% 30% 10% 5% 20% Unpaid family or Yes: 12% 9.1% 20% 17% household work 0% Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these 10% major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply 17.7% Student 4% treatment in the household affected 0% 1% 0% Print Social mediaRetired Mobile app News website Radio20.1% Television newspaperNot at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar No: 75% Working in paid employment 47.8%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%

80% Employment status before COVID-19 - “Which of the following best describes2.2% your work 60% 1.9% 58% or employment before Coronavirus (COVID-19)?” 70.1% Government and Politics 32.3% 40.3% 23.4% 0.8% 3.9% 60% Working in ‘gig economy’ 1% 40% 39% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) < News in general 26.4% 39.1% 29.7%

40% 40% Working in temporary 39% 1% 10% or seasonal job Health news 16.9% 19.8% 50.6% 2.6% 34% 20% T Self-employed 3% Technology news 18.2% 18.4% 52.9% 6.5% 20% 30% 4.1% 1 1.8% 4% 0% 1% 6.5% 1.9% 2.2% 3.8% 5.2% 0% 1.9% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or 0.6% Looking for paid work 5% Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4% 0% I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have 20%Never Once 2-3 times Once19% 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I infected1.2% 2.6% but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been a week a week a week Popular had a confirmed test negative tested Unpaid family or 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% household work 9% entertainment news test 11% 3.1% 10% Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6% Student 18% 0.2% 2% 3% 4.5% 2% 2% My primary news source Science News 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3% 0% Retired 20% Getting sick with the provides reliable information 8.2% 9.2% 42.7% Coronavirus39.8% (COVID-19) 16% 77% about theI haveCoronavirus lost My work I have been None of I have can be serious. laid off, 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% (COVID-19)my situation. job hours these started furloughed Working in paidhave employment been situations working I will probably get sick or my job has 48% 3% reduced apply from home Muchwith less the interested Coronavirus 7%Less interested36% About the same 36% More interested 18% Much more interested 0% 10% been20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%(COVID-19).90% 100% suspended 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust PartiallyThe trustCoronavirus (COVID-19)Completely trust 1% 60% will not affect very many 25% 42% 18% 14% 54% people in my community.

50% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree 40% 34%

30%

1.9% 2.2% 20% 19% 40% Coronavirus39% 32.3% 40.3% Art & style news (COVID-19) 23.4% 7% 9% 10% 30% 45% 10% 34% vaccination when 5% 1.2%it is available.2.6% Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% 0%30% entertainment news 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these V3.1%ery Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply Unfavourably nor Unfavourably treatment in the household affected Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

20% 19% 11% Perceived priorities Public opinion 12% 4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% Favoured53.8% priorities 3%

20% Minimizing disruption 11% to0% normal life10% 20% 30% 40%33% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 10% International 26% Much less interestedinfluences Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested 13% 2.2% 1.9%2% Political 29% Government considerations 2% 0%and Politics 32.3% 40.3% 23.4% I have been laid I have0.8% lost3.9% My work hours None of I have started 45% my job have been off, furloughed these Scientific evidenceworking 26.4% 39.1% 29.7% 81% News in general reduced or my job has been situations from home suspended Economic Unsure: 13.4 % 61% apply considerations 34% Health news 16.9% 19.8% 50.6% 10% 2.6% 60% Advice from 68% medical doctors T 81% Technology news 18.2% 18.4% 52.9% 54% 6.5% 4.1% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 50% Yes: 11.6 % 1.9% 2.2%

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4% 40% 1.2% 2.6% 34% Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 30% Irish Examiner <1% 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8%Breakingnews.ie 9.6%2% 20% 19% 4.5% British News 2% No: 74.9 % Science News 53.8% 10% 21.3% 17.4% 3% 5% TheJournal.ie 4% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

0% Irish Independent 6% Much lessHave interested postponedLess interestedExperiencedAbout the same MentalMore health interested NoneMuch of more these interested major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply 57.7% 60% Irish Times 11% treatment. in the household. affected Other (please specify) 15%

60% 40% RTÉ News 38.6%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55%

20%

1.9% 2.2% 2% 2% 50% Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 50% 23.4% 3.7% Government 0% 0.5% and Politics 32% 0% 40% 23% 1.2% 2.6% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed40% A doctor said I was I might have had or 1% 4% 40% Popular 8.1% 36.4% I have51.7% COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have entertainment news News in general 26% 39% and I am still COVID-19 patient,30% but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I infected but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been 3.1% 30% had a confirmed test negative tested test Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6% Health news 17% 20% 50%20% 10% 3%

T 4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 10% 3% Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 6% 4% 2% 3% 3% 2% 2% 0%2% 2%10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 0% 80% 90% 100% Getting sick withOther the Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News Art & styleMuch news less interested Less interested32% About the same More40% Coronavirusinterested (COVID-19)(pleaseMuch specify) more interestedTimes23%16% 77% can be serious. 1% 3% Popular 8% 36% I will probably get sick52% entertainment news with the Coronavirus 7% 36% 36% 18% 3% 3% (COVID-19).

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10% The Coronavirus (COVID-19) Unsure: 13.4 % 1% will not affect very many 25% 42% 18% 14% people in my community. 4.5% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 60% Yes: 11.6 % 60% Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree

Much less interested Less interested About the same 50%More interested Much more interested

40% 39% 39% 39%

29% 30%

20% 17% Coronavirus 10% (COVID-19) 6.7% 8.7% 10.4% 29.7% 44.5% vaccination when No: 74.9 0%% it is available. Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably

80% 1.9% 2.2% 57.7% 60% 70%

32.3% 40.3% 11.4% Art & style news 60% 23.4% Perceived priorities Public opinion 11.6% Favoured priorities 1.2% 2.6% 40% 38.6% 40% 20.3% Popular 8.1% 36.4% Minimizing disruption51.7% entertainment news to normal life 33.2% 3.1% 20% International 26.1% 12% 6% influences 4% 5% Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 1% 2% 27.8% 12.6% 9.6% 20% 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily Political a week a week28.9% a week considerations 1.6% Science news 21.3% 3.7% 17.4% 53.8% 4.5% 0% 0.5% 3% 0% 45.3% Scientific evidence<1% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or 80.6% I have COVID-19, wasa0% suspected10% I have20% COVID-19,30% 40%a suspected50% Mycurrently60% primary news have70% source 80% 90% 100% and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, providesCOVID-19, reliable information but I 8% 9% 43% 40% infected but I have not yet and now but I tested negative haveabout notthe Coronavirus beenEconomic 60.6% (COVID-19)considerations situation. Much lesshad interested a confirmed Lesstest interested negative About the same Moretested interested Much more interested 33.9% test 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Advice from 67.5% medical doctors Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust 80.6%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 2% 3% 2% Getting sick with the Unsure: 13% Coronavirus (COVID-19) 16% 77% can be serious.

I will probably get sick Irish Examiner 0.2% with the Coronavirus 7% 36% 36% 18% 3% (COVID-19). Yes: 12% Breakingnews.ie 2.1%

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 25% 42% 18% 14% 1% will not affect very many British News 2.1% people in my community.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70%TheJournal.ie80% 90% 3.9%100%

Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree Irish Independent 5.8%

IrishNo: Times 75% 11.5%

Other (please specify) 14.7% Coronavirus (COVID-19) 6.7% 8.7% 10.4% 29.7% RTÉ News44.5% 59.7% vaccination when it is available. 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55% 60% 58% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably

40% 39% 49.8% 11.4% 50% Perceived priorities Public opinion 11.6% Favoured priorities 39.6% 20.3% 40% Minimizing disruption 20% to normal life 33.2%

International 26.1% 30% influences 12.6% 4% 0% 1% 20% 0% Political 28.9% A doctor confirmedconsiderations A doctor1.6% said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered 45.3%COVID-1910% patient, COVID-19, but I infectedScientific evidence but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been 5.6% 3.1%80.6% had a confirmed test negative 1.9% tested test 0% Economic 60.6% considerations Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News 33.9% (please specify) Times

Advice from 67.5% medical doctors 80.6% 2% 3% 0% 2% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% Getting sick with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) 16% 77% can be serious.

I will probably get sick Irishwith Examiner the Coronavirus0.2% 7% 36% 36% 18% 3% (COVID-19).

Breakingnews.ie 2.1% 60% The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 60% 25% 42% 18% 14% 1% willBritish not Newsaffect very many2.1% people in my community. 50%

39% 40% 39% 39% TheJournal.ie 3.9%0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 29% 30% Irish Independent 5.8% Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree 20% 17%

Irish Times 11.5% 10%

Other 14.7% (please specify) Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper 59.7% RTÉ News Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination0% 5% when10% 15%7% 20%9% 25%10% 30% 35% 30%40% 45% 50% 55% 45% it is available. 80% 70.1% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

60% Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably 49.8% 50% 40%

39.6% 40% 11% Perceived priorities Public opinion 20% 12% Favoured priorities 1 1.8% 6.5% 3.8% 5.2% 0.6% 1.9% 30% 20% Minimizing disruption 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily to normal life 33% a week a week a week 20% International 26% influences 13% 10% 5.6% 0.2% 3.1% 29% 1.9% Political My primary news source considerations 2% provides reliable information 8.2% 9.2% 42.7% 39.8% 0% about the Coronavirus Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (COVID-19) situation. (please specify) Times 45% Scientific evidence 0% 10% 20% 81%30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Economic Completely distrust61% Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust considerations 34%

Advice from 68% medical doctors 81%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%

60% 60%

50% Irish Examiner <1% 39% 40% 39% 39%

29% 30% Breakingnews.ie 2%

20% 17% British News 2% 10%

TheJournal.ie Print Social media4%Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper

Irish Independent 6%

Irish Times 11% 80% 70.1% Other (please specify) 15% 60%

RTÉ News 60% 40% 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55%

20% 1 1.8% 6.5% 3.8% 5.2% 0.6% 1.9% 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily a week a week a week

50% 50%

0.2% 40% My40% primary news source provides reliable information 8.2% 9.2% 42.7% 39.8% about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. 30% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust 20%

10% 6% 3% 2% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times

60% 60%

50%

40% 39% 39% 39%

29% 30%

20% 17%

10%

0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper

80% 70%

60%

40%

20% 12% 6% 4% 5% 1% 2% 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily a week a week a week

<1% My primary news source provides reliable information 8% 9% 43% 40% about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust 21%of the population Over one third of the believed they would population have experienced get sick with COVID-19 negative mental health due at the time of this to COVID-19. research.

Most Scientific evidence valued of people in for paid38% employment started Advice COVID-19 from working from home as a decisions medical result of COVID-19. doctors

Some members of the public reported less of the interest in health (37%), 74%population were found to technology (37%), and be supportive of making science news (39%). a future COVID-19 vaccine mandatory.

More than two-thirds of people (70%) accessed RTÉ News was the most popular information about COVID-19 news source (60%). through their primary news source on a daily basis. PAGE 3 Executive Summary

Extending beyond the original This research involved asking respondents’ from objectives of the SFI Science within the Irish public about COVID-19, including familiarity with it, views towards it, personal in Ireland Barometer 2020, the circumstances during the pandemic, which news COVID-19 pandemic presented a sources were used to gain information, priorities societal context that required an in government decision making, and the extent of additional focus to the research. interest in taking a potential vaccine. The development of the pandemic Responses to this survey were given over two during the first half of 2020 resulted months between 13th July 2020 and 13th September 2020. During this time, people living in in an ability for the Barometer to Ireland were faced with a range of changing rules capture data regarding COVID-19 and restrictions in different counties (detailed views and experiences that may in Appendix A). However, most counties were impact public attitudes towards under level 3 restrictions, which included two- metre social distancing guidelines, mandatory science, potentially changing face coverings in shops, and restrictions to the interactions between the scientific numbers of people allowed to gather indoors and community and the public. outdoors. The discussion about the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on attitudes towards science will be available after Phase II of the project has been completed in 2021. Here, we directly report findings from the COVID-19 pandemic-related questions without speculating on broader relevance to conceptual and long-term understanding of public science attitudes in Ireland.1

1 NOTE: All results from this research presented in this report were weighted to accurately represent the Irish population. A detailed account of the methodology used within this research project, including the survey design, can be found in the appendices of the SFI Barometer 2020 Research Report. Key Findings

Overall, the majority of respondents The Irish public recognised the collective risk from the Irish public considered the posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, with 93% agreement that ‘getting sick with COVID-19 collective risk of COVID-19 as serious can be serious’. and were in support of a mandatory A majority acknowledged that ‘many people vaccine, but thought it was unlikely in [their] community will be affected by that they personally would get COVID-19’, with 67% agreement. infected. These findings are supported However, there was a low level of perceived by the following key points: individual risk, with only 21% agreement that they personally would get infected with COVID-19. Support for a mandatory vaccine was widespread, with 74% agreement. Regarding management of priorities in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, several notable gaps were identified within public opinion between expectations and perceptions of what factors influence the Irish government’s decisions and actions. These findings are supported by the following key points: A higher proportion of the public believed the government was following advice from medical doctors more than any other source of guidance (68%). SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report PAGE 5

People believed that scientific evidence With regards to COVID-19 media behaviour, was not being considered enough by the several trends were found in terms of popular government. This was apparent as a gap news sources and how they were accessed. between respondents who indicated that These findings are supported by the following scientific evidence should most influence the key points: government (81%) and those who believed RTÉ News was the most popular news source the government was influenced by scientific (60%), and was primarily accessed through evidence (45%). television (60%), compared to radio (39%), There was a noticeable perception news website; (39%) mobile app (38%) and amongst the public that the government social media (29%). was considering economic and political More than two-thirds (70%) of people factors too much. These factors were accessed information about COVID-19 perceived to be the most influential drivers through their primary news source on a daily of governmental decision-making by 61% basis. (economic considerations) and 29% (political considerations) of people, compared to People reported more interest in news about just 34% and 2% who agreed that they popular entertainment (88%), government should influence decision-making the most and politics (64%), and arts and style (74%). (respectively). Some members of the public reported As a demographic comparison, men more less interest in news about health (37%), often believed that the government was technology (37%), and science (39%). considering political and public opinion factors the most (62% and 61% respectively) compared to women (38% and 39% respectively). This research found that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected people’s personal lives in various ways. These findings are supported by the ‘Who values following key points: With regards to work, 38% of people in paid science in employment started working from home as a result of COVID-19. Ireland and Nearly one-fifth (19%) of people faced a temporary suspension of work, while a third (34%) of people’s work status had not why?’ changed. More than one-third (34%) reported negative effects on their mental health, while 5% postponed major medical treatment. A total of 7% of people indicated they might have had, or definitely had, COVID-19 despite not having been tested. 1 | Results

1.1 | Perceptions of COVID-19

Section Summary Key findings his section explores the Irish public’s general The Irish public recognised the collective risk level of familiarity with COVID-19, and key posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, with 93% attitudinal dimensions to the pandemic and agreement that ‘getting sick with COVID-19 its effects, as well as attitudes towards a can be serious’. potential vaccine. A majority of the public also acknowledged that ‘many people in [their] community will be affected by COVID-19’, with 67% agreement. However, there was a low level of a perceived individual risk, with only 21% agreement 21%of the population that they personally would get infected with OverCOVID-19. one third of the believed they would population have experienced get sick with COVID-19 Support for a mandatory vaccine was negativewidespread, mental with 74% healthagreement. due at the time of this to COVID-19. research. The quotations presented in dark blue quotation boxes show what different people said in response to: What information do you wish What information do you wish you knew about the Coronavirus (COVID-19)? you knew about the Coronavirus Most Scientific evidence (COVID-19)? valuedWhere did it orginate of people in for paid38% employment started from truly?Advice COVID-19 working from home as a Man, 18, Mallowfrom decisions medical result of COVID-19. doctors

Some members of the public reported less of the interest in health (37%), 74%population were found to technology (37%), and be supportive of making science news (39%). a future COVID-19 vaccine mandatory.

More than two-thirds of people (70%) accessed RTÉ News was the most popular information about COVID-19 news source (60%). through their primary news source on a daily basis. 70% 64%

60%

50%

40% 31% 30%

20%

10% 4% 0% 1% 0% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar

Working in ‘gig economy’ 1% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) <

Working in temporary 1% or seasonal job

Self-employed 3%

Looking for paid work 5%

Unpaid family or household work 9%

Student 18%

Retired 20%

Working in paid employment 48%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%

40% 39% 34%

30%

20% 19%

11% 10%

2% 0% I have lost My work hours I have been laid None of I have started my job have been off, furloughed these working reduced or my job has been situations from home suspended apply

60% 54% 50%

40% 34%

30%

20% 19%

10% 5%

0% Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply treatment. in the household. affected

2% 2% Government and Politics 32% 40% 23% 1% 4% News in general 26% 39% 30%

Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3%

T Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4%

2% 2%

Art & style news 32% 40% 23%

1% 3% Popular 8% 52% entertainment news 36% 3%

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10%

4.5% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

1.9% 2.2%

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4%

1.2% 2.6%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

Unsure: 13%

SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report PAGE 7 Yes: 12%

1.1.1 | Familiarity With COVID-19 Here, results provide an overview of familiarity within the Irish population of COVID-19. The entire population were at least slightly familiar with COVID-19, with the majority reporting that they were extremely familiar (64%).

70% 64% No: 75% 60%

50%

40% 31% 58% 60% 30%

20%

40% 10% 39% 4% 0% 1% 0% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar 20% Figure 1.

2 Self-reported familiarity with COVID-19 - “How4% familiar are you with the Coronavirus (COVID-19)?” 0% 1% 0% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or The median responseWorking wasin ‘gig moderately economy’ familiar with 31% of responses. I have COVID-19, wasa suspected

I will probably get sick Retired 20% with the Coronavirus 7% 36% 36% 18% 3% (COVID-19). Working in paid employment 48%

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%1% will not affect very many 25% 42% 18% 14% people in my community.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree

Figure 2. 40% 39% Level of agreement with statements related to risks of COVID-19 - “How much do you agree or disagree with the following statements?”3 34%

30%Coronavirus (COVID-19) 2 Marginvaccination of error: when ±5%, n = 8837% 9% 10% 30% 45% 3 Marginit ofis error:available. ±5%, n (top to bottom): 883, 847, 865 20% 19%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 11% 10%Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably

2% 0% 11% I have been laid Perceived priorities Public opinionI have lost My work hours None of I have started my job have12% been off, furloughed these Favoured prioritiesworking reduced or my job has been situations from home suspended 20% apply Minimizing disruption to normal life 33% 60% 54% International 26% 50% influences 13%

40% 29% Political 34% considerations 2% 30% 45% Scientific evidence 20% 19% 81%

10% Economic 61% considerations 5% 34% 0% AdviceHave from postponed Experienced Mental health None of these 68% medical doctorsmajor medical severe tensions negatively situations apply 81% treatment. in the household. affected

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%

Irish Examiner <1% 2% 2% Government and Politics 32% 40% 23% Breakingnews.ie 2% 1% 4% News in general 26% 39% 30% British News 2%

Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3% TheJournal.ie 4% T Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4% Irish Independent 6% 2% 2%

Art & style news 32% 40% 23% Irish Times 11% 1% 3% Popular 8% 36% 52% Otherentertainment news 15% (please specify) 3%

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10% RTÉ News 60% 4.5%

0%Science5% News 10% 15%21% 20% 25%17% 30% 35% 40% 54%45% 50% 55% 5% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

50% 50%

40% 40%

30% 1.9% 2.2%

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4% 20% 1.2% 2.6%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 10% 3.1% 6% 3% 2% Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times 4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

Unsure: 13%

60% 60% Yes: 12%

50%

40% 39% 39% 39%

29% 30%

20% 17%

10% No: 75%

0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper

60% 58%

80% 39% 40% 70%

60%

20% 40%

4% 0% 1% 20% 0% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A12% doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, wasa suspected6% I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have 4% 5% 1% and2% I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I 0% infected but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been Never Once 2-3 timeshad a confirmedOnce test2-3 negative times 4-6 times Daily tested test a week a week a week

<1% 2% 3% 2% My primary news source provides reliable informationGetting sick with the Coronavirus (COVID-19)8% 9% 16% 43% 77% 40% about the Coronavirus can be serious. (COVID-19) situation.

I will probably get0% sick 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% with the Coronavirus 7% 36% 36% 18% 3% (COVID-19). Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 1% will not affect very many 25% 42% 18% 14% people in my community.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree

Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination when 7% 9% 10% 30% 45% it is available.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably

11% Perceived priorities Public opinion 12% Favoured priorities

20% Minimizing disruption to normal life 33%

International 26% influences 13%

Political 29% considerations 2%

45% Scientific evidence 81%

Economic 61% considerations 34%

Advice from 68% medical doctors 81%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%

Irish Examiner <1%

Breakingnews.ie 2%

British News 2%

TheJournal.ie 4%

Irish Independent 6%

Irish Times 11%

Other (please specify) 15%

RTÉ News 60%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55%

50% 50%

40% 40%

30%

20%

10% 6% 3% 2% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times

60% 60%

50%

40% 39% 39% 39%

29% 30%

20% 17%

10%

0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper

80% 70%

60%

40%

20% 12% 6% 4% 5% 1% 2% 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily a week a week a week

<1% My primary news source provides reliable information 8% 9% 43% 40% about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust 70% 64%

60%

50%

40% 31% 30%

20%

10% 4% 0% 1% 0% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar

Working in ‘gig economy’ 1% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) <

Working in temporary 1% or seasonal job

Self-employed 3%

Looking for paid work 5%

Unpaid family or household work 9%

Student 18%

Retired 20%

Working in paid employment 48%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%

40% 39% 34%

30%

20% 19%

11% 10%

2% 0% I have lost My work hours I have been laid None of I have started my job have been off, furloughed these working reduced or my job has been situations from home suspended apply

60% 54% 50%

40% 34%

30%

20% 19%

10% 5%

0% Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply treatment. in the household. affected

2% 2% Government and Politics 32% 40% 23% 1% 4% News in general 26% 39% 30%

Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3%

T Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4%

2% 2%

Art & style news 32% 40% 23%

1% 3% Popular 8% 52% entertainment news 36% 3%

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10%

4.5% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

1.9% 2.2%

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4%

1.2% 2.6%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

Unsure: 13%

Yes: 12%

No: 75%

60% 58%

40% 39%

20%

4% 0% 1% 0% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I infected but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been had a confirmed test negative tested test

2% 3% 2% Getting sick with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) 16% 77% PAGE 8 SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report can be serious.

I will probably get sick with theThere Coronavirus was a high level7% of agreement36% (93%) that contracting COVID-1936% could have serious18% health 3% consequences,(COVID-19). with a median response of strongly agree. There was considerably more variation in the perceived risk of infection, with a neutral median response and 43% disagreement with the idea that they would ‘probably get sick with the coronavirus’. However, around two-thirds (67%) generally The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 1% will not affectbelieved very many the virus ‘would25% affect [...] many people in 42%their community’. 18% 14% people in my community. 1.1.3 | Acceptance of COVID-19 Vaccine 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% These next results indicate how favourable people would find a mandatory COVID-19 vaccine once available. At the time of thisStrongly research Disagree (July-SeptemberDisagree 2020), COVID-19Neutral vaccinesAgree were in Stronglythe very Agree early stages of development, with initial testing only a couple of months underway, compared to the 265,237 vaccinations which have been given at the time of writing4. The majority (74%) said they would be supportive of mandatory vaccination, with a median response of mainly favourably (30%) and the most popular response of very favourably (45%).

Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination when 7% 9% 10% 30% 45% it is available.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably Figure 3. Reaction towards a mandatory vaccine against COVID-19 - “How would you feel if the following was 11% 5 Perceived priorities announcedPublic as opinion a requirement in your local area?” 12% Favoured priorities

20% Minimizing disruption 1.1.4 to | normal Demographic life Trends in Perceptions33% of COVID-19 Results indicated an interplay between education level and COVID-19 risk perceptions. As education International 26% levels increase,influences people in Ireland tended to have a heightened risk perception of becoming infected with COVID-19.6 13%

An additionalPolitical notable result from further analysis 29%was that a mandatory COVID-19 vaccine is slightly 7 more likelyconsiderations to be accepted2% with increasing age .

45% Scientific evidence 81% What information do you wish you knew about the Coronavirus (COVID-19)? Economic 61% considerations 34% What information do you wish you knew I wish the daily updates would about the Coronavirus (COVID-19)? breakAdvice down from the areas in which 68% medical doctors cases are occurring and the age Safety data on upcoming 81% range of patients. I wish I knew 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% vaccines50% -60% need reassurance70% 80% more about the backgrounds if any fast-tracking, and of those contracting the virus evidence around safety full and how that might increase or explained, to maxamise decrease the chances accordingly uptake Man, 37, Dublin Woman, 56, Galway Irish Examiner <1%

Breakingnews.ie4 The latest available2% figures includes all vaccinations given up to the 12th February 2021: 175,238 first doses, 89,999 second doses given. Current figures available at: https://covid-19.geohive.ie/pages/vaccinations

British5 News Margin of error:2% ±5%, n = 852

6 rs = .27, p < .001

7 rs = .20, p < .001 TheJournal.ie 4%

Irish Independent 6%

Irish Times 11%

Other (please specify) 15%

RTÉ News 60%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55%

50% 50%

40% 40%

30%

20%

10% 6% 3% 2% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times

60% 60%

50%

40% 39% 39% 39%

29% 30%

20% 17%

10%

0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper

80% 70%

60%

40%

20% 12% 6% 4% 5% 1% 2% 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily a week a week a week

<1% My primary news source provides reliable information 8% 9% 43% 40% about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report PAGE 9

1.2 Priorities in Governmental Decisions About COVID-19 | Management

Section Summary Key findings In this section, we21%of presentthe population results exploring the A higher proportionOver of theone public thirdbelieved the of the Irish public’s viewsbelieved on priorities they that would were affecting governmentpopulation was following advice have from medicalexperienced government decision-making.get sick with In particular, COVID-19 what doctors more than any other source of guidance the Irish public perceived the government to be (68%). negative mental health due prioritising, comparedat the to time what they of thisbelieved the People believedto COVID-19. that scientific evidence was not government shouldresearch. be prioritising. being considered enough by the government. This was apparent as a gap between respondents who indicated that scientific evidence should most influence the government (81%) and those who believed the government was influenced by scientific evidence (45%). Scientific Most There was a noticeable perception amongst the evidence public that the government was considering valued of people in economic and38% political factors too much. for These factorspaid were employment perceived to be the most started Advice COVID-19 influentialworking drivers of governmental from home decision- as a from making by 61% (economic considerations) decisions medical and 29% (politicalresult considerations of COVID-19.) of people, doctors compared to just 34% and 2% who agreed that they should influence decision-making the most (respectively). Men more often believed that the government was influenced by political considerations and public opinion the most (62% and 61% respectively) compared to women (38% and Some members of the 39% respectively). public reported less 74% of the There are several important findings within Figure 4, below. A interest in health (37%), populationWhat information were do youfound to notable expectation gap was identifiable with regards to economic technology (37%), and be supportivewish you knew about of themaking considerations. A total of 61% of the population perceived the Coronavirus (COVID-19)? governmentscience as influenced news (39%). by economic considerations the most, a future COVID-19 but only 34% considered it as something the government should vaccine mandatory. be considering the most. In a similar way, 29% of the population When we hit the perceived the government as influenced by political considerations second spike in the most, but only 2% considered it as something they should Ireland, will we be consider the most. sent into lockdown Conversely, 45% of the population perceived the government as again, or will the scientific evidence following the most, but 81% considered it as the economy be picked factor the government should be considering the most. In other words, there was a noticeable perception amongst the public Moreover than the people two-thirds that the government was influenced by economic and political of peopleMan, 16, (70%) Dublin accessed considerationsRTÉ too News much, and scientific was evidence not enough. the most popular information about COVID-19 news source (60%). through their primary news source on a daily basis. 70% 64%

60%

50%

40% 31% 30%

20%

10% 4% 0% 1% 0% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar

Working in ‘gig economy’ 1% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) <

Working in temporary 1% or seasonal job

Self-employed 3%

Looking for paid work 5%

Unpaid family or household work 9%

Student 18%

Retired 20%

Working in paid employment 48%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%

40% 39% 34%

30%

20% 19%

11% 10%

2% 0% I have lost My work hours I have been laid None of I have started my job have been off, furloughed these working reduced or my job has been situations from home suspended apply

60% 54% 50%

40% 34%

30%

20% 19%

10% 5%

0% Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply treatment. in the household. affected

2% 2% Government and Politics 32% 40% 23% 1% 4% News in general 26% 39% 30%

Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3%

T Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4%

2% 2%

Art & style news 32% 40% 23%

1% 3% Popular 8% 52% entertainment news 36% 3%

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10%

4.5% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

1.9% 2.2%

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4%

1.2% 2.6%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

Unsure: 13%

Yes: 12%

No: 75%

60% 58%

40% 39%

20%

4% 0% 1% 0% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I infected but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been had a confirmed test negative tested test

2% 3% 2% Getting sick with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) 16% 77% can be serious.

I will probably get sick with the Coronavirus 7% 36% 36% 18% 3% (COVID-19).

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 1% will not affect very many 25% 42% 18% 14% people in my community.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree

PAGE 10Coronavirus SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report (COVID-19) vaccination when 7% 9% 10% 30% 45% it is available. Another noteworthy point is the fact that a higher proportion of the public believed the government

was following advice0% from medical10% doctors20% the30% most40% (68%), compared50% 60% to scientific70% evidence80% (45%).90% The100% smallest expectation gap was found in public opinion. Just over one-tenth (12%) of people identified public opinionVery Unfavourably as a key factorMainly that the governmentNeither should Favourably consider inMainly decision-making, Favourably alongsideVery Favourably 11% who perceived it as a factor thatUnfavourably they were indeednor Unfavourably considering.

11% Perceived priorities Public opinion 12% Favoured priorities

20% Minimizing disruption to normal life 33%

International 26% influences 13%

Political 29% considerations 2%

45% Scientific evidence 81%

Economic 61% considerations 34%

Advice from 68% medical doctors 81%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%

Figure 4. Perceptions of Government priorities for decision-making related to COVID-19: Actual ( ) versus Preferred ( ) - “Which of the following is the government considering the most?” and “Which of the following should the government be considering the most?”8 Irish Examiner <1%

Breakingnews.ie 2% 1.2.1 | Demographic Trends in Priorities in Governmental Decisions about COVID-19 Management British News 2% Further analysis revealed notable gender differences in two response options related to priorities in governmental decisions about COVID-19 management. Within the 29% of people who perceived TheJournal.iethe government4% to be taking into account political considerations, there was a higher proportion of men (62%) than women (38%)9,10. Men were also overrepresented (61%) in the perception that public Irish Independentopinion was being 6%primarily considered by the government compared to 39% of women. This indicates that men were more likely to believe public opinion was something the government was considering the most for COVID-19-based decision-making. Irish Times 11%

Other (please specify) 15%

RTÉ News 60%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55% 8 Margin of error: ±5%

nperceived priorities = 875; ndesired priorities = 860 9 Margin of error: ±6% 10 Responses from non-binary people could not be represented accurately here because there was a lack of census data about the non-binary population in Ireland with which to weight the data. For more details, see the ‘Gender’ section of the methodological appendix in the SFI Barometer 2020 Research Report. 50% 50%

40% 40%

30%

20%

10% 6% 3% 2% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times

60% 60%

50%

40% 39% 39% 39%

29% 30%

20% 17%

10%

0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper

80% 70%

60%

40%

20% 12% 6% 4% 5% 1% 2% 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily a week a week a week

<1% My primary news source provides reliable information 8% 9% 43% 40% about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report PAGE 11 1.3 | Personal COVID-19 Situation Section Summary Key findings 21%of the population In this section,Over results one are third presented of the relating to With regards to work, 38% of people in paid believed they would the population’spopulation current have situation experienced relating to employment started working from home as a get sick with COVID-19 negative mental health due at the time of this 70% COVID-19, predominantly in terms of health and result of COVID-19. employment.to COVID-19. 64% research. Nearly one-fifth (19%) of people faced a 60% temporary suspension of work, while a third (34%) of people’s working statuses had not 50% changed.

Scientific More than one-third (34%) reported negative Most 40% evidence effects on their mental health, while 5% valued of people in 38% 31%postponed major medical treatment. for 30% paid employment started Advice COVID-19 from working from home as a A total of 7% of people indicated they might decisions medical 20% result of COVID-19. have had, or definitely had, COVID-19 despite doctors not having been tested.

10% 4% 0% 1% 0% Not1.3.1 at all | COVID-19Slightly Employment Somewhat Situation Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Some members of the The following results reveal how the population’s employment situations changed during the public reported less COVID-19 pandemic.of Nearly the half (48%) of the Irish population were working in paid employment prior interest in health (37%), to the 74%populationpandemic, with were 4% in found other typesto of employment (3% self-employed, 1% working in temporary technology (37%), and or seasonalbe supportive employment of). Overall, making 5% were looking for paid work, 9% doing unpaid family or household science news (39%). work), awhile future nearly COVID-19 one-fifth (18%) of the population were studying and another fifth (20%) retired. vaccine mandatory.

Working in ‘gig economy’ 1% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) <

Working in temporary 1% or seasonal job More than two-thirds Self-employed of people (70%) accessed3% RTÉ News was the most popular information about COVID-19 news source (60%). throughLooking for their paid work primary news5% source on a daily basis. Unpaid family or household work 9%

Student 18%

Retired 20%

Working in paid employment 48%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%

Figure 5. Employment status before COVID-19 - “Which of the following best describes your work or employment before Coronavirus (COVID-19)?”11

40% 39% 11 Margin of error: ±5% n = 867 34%

30%

20% 19%

11% 10%

2% 0% I have lost My work hours I have been laid None of I have started my job have been off, furloughed these working reduced or my job has been situations from home suspended apply

60% 54% 50%

40% 34%

30%

20% 19%

10% 5%

0% Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply treatment. in the household. affected

2% 2% Government and Politics 32% 40% 23% 1% 4% News in general 26% 39% 30%

Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3%

T Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4%

2% 2%

Art & style news 32% 40% 23%

1% 3% Popular 8% 52% entertainment news 36% 3%

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10%

4.5% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

1.9% 2.2%

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4%

1.2% 2.6%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

Unsure: 13%

Yes: 12%

No: 75%

60% 58%

40% 39%

20%

4% 0% 1% 0% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I infected but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been had a confirmed test negative tested test

2% 3% 2% Getting sick with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) 16% 77% can be serious.

I will probably get sick with the Coronavirus 7% 36% 36% 18% 3% (COVID-19).

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 1% will not affect very many 25% 42% 18% 14% people in my community.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree

Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination when 7% 9% 10% 30% 45% it is available.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably

11% Perceived priorities Public opinion 12% Favoured priorities

20% Minimizing disruption to normal life 33%

International 26% influences 13%

Political 29% considerations 2%

45% Scientific evidence 81%

Economic 61% considerations 34%

Advice from 68% medical doctors 81%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%

Irish Examiner <1%

Breakingnews.ie 2%

British News 2%

TheJournal.ie 4%

Irish Independent 6%

Irish Times 11%

Other (please specify) 15%

RTÉ News 60%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55%

50% 50%

40% 40%

30%

20%

10% 6% 3% 2% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times

60% 60%

50%

40% 39% 39% 39%

29% 30%

20% 17%

10%

0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper

80% 70%

60%

40%

20% 12% 6% 4% 5% 1% 2% 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily a week a week a week

<1% My primary news source provides reliable information 8% 9% 43% 40% about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust 70% 64%

60%

50%

40% 31% 30%

20%

10% 4% 0% 1% 0% 70% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar64% 60%

50%

40%

Working in ‘gig economy’ 31% 30% 1% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) <

Working in temporary 20% 1% or seasonal job

10% Self-employed 3% 4% 0% 1% 0% Not at allLooking for paid Slightlywork 5%Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Unpaid family or household work 9%

Student 18%

Retired 20% Working in ‘gig economy’ 1% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) < PAGEWorking 12 in paid employment SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research48% Report Working in temporary 1% or seasonal job 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% Self-employed 3% The change in employment experienced by the largest proportion of the population was the switch to working from home (38%). Other disruptions to employment accounted for 32% of people’s experiences, Looking for paid work 5% with the least common being job loss (2%), a reduction in work hours (11%), and a temporary suspension ofUnpaid work family - being or laid off, furloughed or suspended (19%). However, most common overall was 9% a lack of disruptionhousehold to work at all, as 34% of the population responded none of these situations apply.

18% 40% Student 39%

Retired 20% 34%

30% Working in paid employment 48%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 20% 19%

11% 10%

2% 0% 40% 39% I have lost My work hours I have been laid None of I have started off, furloughed my job have been these34% working reduced or my job has been situations from home suspended apply 30%

Figure60% 6. Change in paid employment due to COVID-19 - “Do any of the following54% situations apply to you 19% because50%20% of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation?”12

40% 11% 34% 10% 1.3.230% | COVID-19 Health Situation 2% This20% section is concerned with 19%personal health situations and the impact COVID-19 0% What information was havingI have on lostthe population,My work hourswhich includedI have been mental laid and physicalNone of healthI have started outcomes.10% Resultsmy job are alsohave included been aboutoff, self-reported furloughed COVID-19these infection workingstatus. do you wish you 5% reduced or my job has been situations from home knew about the suspended apply 0% Coronavirus Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these (COVID-19)? 60% major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply treatment. in the household. affected 54% 50% [...] very little support 40% for stay at 34% home Moms 30% and Dads 19% 20% economic 2% 2% wise I received 10% Government and Politics5% 32% 40% 23% no help 4% 0% 1% compared to News in Havegeneral postponed 26%Experienced Mental health39% None of these 30% major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply a teenager treatment. in the household. affected who has no Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% dependents3% [...] T Figure 7. Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% Woman,4% 37, Galway Change in health situation due to COVID-19 - “Do any of the following situations apply to you because2% 2% of the Coronavirus (COVID-19)?”13 Art & style news 32% 40% 23%

1% 3% Popular 2% 2% 8% 36% 52% entertainmentGovernment news and Politics 32% 40% 23% 12 Margin of error: ±7%3% 1% 4% n = 417Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10% News in general 26% 39% 30% 13 Margin of error: ±5%, n = 831 4.5% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3% Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3%

T 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4% Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested 2% 2%

Art & style news 32% 40% 23%

1% 3% Popular 8% 52% entertainment news 36% 3%

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10%

4.5% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3%

1.9% 2.2% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4% Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested 1.2% 2.6%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 1.9% 2.2% Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4%

1.2% 2.6%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% Unsure:52.8% 13% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

Yes: 12%0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

Unsure: 13% No: 75%

Yes: 12%

60% 58%

40% 39%

No: 75%

20%

4% 0% 1% 58% 60%0% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I infected but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been 40% had a confirmed test negative 39% tested test

20% 2% 3% 2% Getting sick with the 4% Coronavirus0% (COVID-19) 1% 16% 77% 0% can be serious. A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have I willand probably I am still get sick COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I with theinfected Coronavirus but7% I have not yet 36% and now but I tested36% negative have not been18% 3% (COVID-19). had a confirmed test negative tested test

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 1% will not affect very many 25% 42% 18% 14% people in my community.

2% 3% 0% 2% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Getting sick with the Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree Coronavirus (COVID-19) 16% 77% can be serious.

I will probably get sick with the Coronavirus 7% 36% 36% 18% 3% (COVID-19).

Coronavirus The Coronavirus (COVID-19) (COVID-19) 1% will not affect very many 7%25% 9% 10% 42%30% 18% 45% 14% people in myvaccination community when. it is available.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably

11% Perceived priorities Public opinion 12% Favoured priorities Coronavirus (COVID-19) 20% Minimizingvaccination disruption when 7% 9% 10% 30% 45% it isto available. normal life 33%

International 26% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% influences 13% Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably Political 29% considerations 2%

45% Scientific evidence 11% Perceived priorities Public opinion 81% 12% Favoured priorities

Economic 20% 61% Minimizingconsiderations disruption to normal life 33%34%

InternationalAdvice from 26% 68% medicalinfluences doctors 13% 81%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% Political 29% considerations 2%

45% Scientific evidence 81%

Economic 61% Irish Examinerconsiderations<1% 34%

Breakingnews.ie Advice2% from 68% medical doctors 81%

British News 2% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%

TheJournal.ie 4%

Irish Independent 6%

Irish Examiner <1% Irish Times 11%

Breakingnews.ie 2% Other (please specify) 15%

British News 2% RTÉ News 60%

TheJournal.ie 0% 5%4% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55%

Irish Independent 6%

Irish Times 11%

Other 15% 50% 50%(please specify)

RTÉ News 60% 40% 40% 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55%

30%

20%

50% 50% 10% 6% 3% 2% 40% 40% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times 30%

20%

10% 6% 3% 2% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times

60% 60%

50%

40% 39% 39% 39%

29% 30%

20% 17%

10% 60% 60% 0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television 50% newspaper

40% 39% 39% 39%

29% 30%

20%80% 17% 70% 10%

60% 0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper 40%

20% 12% 80% 6% 4% 5% 1% 2% 70% 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily 60% a week a week a week

40%

<1%

20% My primary news source provides reliable information 8% 9% 43% 12% 40% about the Coronavirus 6% 4% 5% (COVID-19)1% situation.2% 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily 0% 10% 20%a week30% a40% week 50% a week60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust

<1% My primary news source provides reliable information 8% 9% 43% 40% about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust 70% 64%

60%

50%

70% 40% 64% 31% 60% 30%

20% 50%

10% 40% 4% 0% 1% 31% 0% 30% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar 20%

10% 4% 0% 1% 0% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Working in ‘gigFamiliar economy’ Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar 1% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) <

Working in temporary 1% or seasonal job

Self-employed 3%

Looking for paid workWorking in ‘gig economy’ 5% 1% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) <

Unpaid family orWorking in temporary household work 9% 1% or seasonal job

Student Self-employed 3% 18%

Retired 20% Looking for paid work 5%

Working in paid employment Unpaid family or 48% household work 9%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% Student 18%

Retired 20%

Working in paid employment 48%

40% 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 39%25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 34%

30%

20% 19%

40% 39% 11% 10% 34%

30% 2% 0% I have lost My work hours I have been laid None of I have started off, furloughed my job20% have been these19% working reduced or my job has been situations from home suspended apply 11% 60% 10% 54% 50% 2%

40% 0% I have lost My work hours34% I have been laid None of I have started my job have been off, furloughed these working 30% reduced or my job has been situations from home suspended apply 20% 19% 60% 10% 54% 5% 50% 0% Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these major medical40% severe tensions negatively situations apply treatment. in the household. affected 34% 30%

20% 19%

10% 5%

0% 2% 2% Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these Government major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply and Politics treatment.32% in the household. 40% affected 23% 1% 4% News in general 26% 39% 30%

Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3%

T Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4%

2% 2% 2% 2% Art & style news Government32% 40% 23% and Politics 32% 40% 23% 1% 3% 4% Popular 1% 8% 52% entertainment news 36% News in general 26% 39% 30% 3%

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10% Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3% 4.5% ScienceT News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3% Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4%

0% 10% 20%2% 2% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interestedArt & style newsLess interested About32% the same More interested 40%Much more interested 23%

1% 3% Popular 8% 52% entertainment news 36% 3%

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10%

4.5% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 1.9% 2.2% Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4%

1.2% 2.6%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

0% 10% 1.9%20% 2.2% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 32.3% 40.3% Much less interestedArt & style newsLess interested About the same More interested Much more interested 23.4%

1.2% 2.6% SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report PAGE 13 Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7%Unsure: 13% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

Yes: 12% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

Unsure:No: 13% 75%

Figure 8. Self-reported COVID-19 infection status - “Have you ever had, or thought you might have, the 14 Coronavirus (COVID-19)?”Yes: 12% 60% 58%

Around one-third (34%) of the population had their mental health negatively affected due to the COVID-19 situation, and one-fifth (20%) had experienced heightened tensions within their own 40% household. These results are likely linked to confinement39% and social distancing measures. An additional 5% reported having postponed major medical treatment.

20% A total of 12% of the Irish population ‘had or thought [they] might have No:COVID-19’, 75% while three- quarters (75%) had not. A follow-up question posed to people who indicated yes asked them to expand on their positive response. 4% 0% 1% 0% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have 60% 58% and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I infected but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been had a confirmed test negative tested test

40% 39%

2% 3% 2% Getting sick20% with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) 16% 77% can be serious.

4% I will probably get sick 0% 1% with the Coronavirus0% 7% 36% 36% 18% 3% (COVID-19).A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I The Coronavirus (COVID-19) infected but I have not yet and now but I tested negative 1%have not been will not affect very many 25% 42% 18% 14% . had a confirmed test negative tested people in my community test

Figure 9. 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Confirmation statusStrongly of self-reported Disagree DisagreeCOVID-19 infectionNeutral - “WhichAgree of theStrongly following Agree best describes your situation?”15 2% 3% 2% Getting sick with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) 16% 77% can be serious.

Coronavirus 14 Margin(COVID-19)I will of probably error: ±5%, get sickn = 773 vaccinationwith when the Coronavirus7% 9% 7%10% 30%36% 45%36% 18% 3% 15 it Marginis available. of error:(COVID-19). ±16%, n = 71

The Coronavirus0% (COVID-19)10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 1% will not affect very many 25% 42% 18% 14% Verypeople Unfavourably in my communityMainly. Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

11% Strongly Disagree Disagree PerceivedNeutral priorities Agree Strongly Agree Public opinion 12% Favoured priorities

20% Minimizing disruption to normal life 33%

International 26% influences Coronavirus13% (COVID-19) vaccination when 7% 9% 10% 30% 45% Political 29% it is available. considerations 2%

0% 10% 20% 30%45% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Scientific evidence 81% Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably Economic 61% considerations 34%

Advice from 11% 68% medical doctors Perceived priorities Public opinion 81% 12% Favoured priorities

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 20% Minimizing disruption to normal life 33%

International 26% influences 13%

Irish Examiner <1% Political 29% considerations 2% Breakingnews.ie 2% 45% Scientific evidence 81% British News 2%

Economic 61% considerations TheJournal.ie 4% 34%

Advice from 68% Irish Independent 6% medical doctors 81%

Irish Times 11% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%

Other (please specify) 15%

RTÉ News 60%

0% Irish5% Examiner10% <15%1% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55%

Breakingnews.ie 2%

British News 2%

50% 50% TheJournal.ie 4%

40% 40% Irish Independent 6%

30% Irish Times 11%

Other 15% 20% (please specify)

RTÉ News 60% 10% 6% 3%0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55% 2% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times

50% 50%

40% 40%

30%

20% 60% 60%

50% 10% 6% 3% 39% 40% 2% 39% 39% 0% 29% 30% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times 20% 17%

10%

0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper

80% 70%

60% 60% 60%

40% 50%

40% 39% 39% 39% 20% 29% 30% 12% 6% 4% 5% 1% 2% 0% 20% 17% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily 10% a week a week a week

0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television

80% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 70% Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust 60%

40%

20% 12% 6% 4% 5% 1% 2% 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily a week a week a week

<1% My primary news source provides reliable information 8% 9% 43% 40% about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust PAGE 14 SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report

Of the 12% of the population who suspected they had or have had the virus, most (58%) [had] not been tested to confirm their infection status. Overall, 43% had tests for COVID-19, but only 4% reported that a doctor confirmed [they] have COVID-19, while more than a third (39%) tested negative. A tiny proportion reported that a doctor said [they were] a suspected COVID-19 patient, but have not yet had a confirmed test (1%). No one reported a medically-confirmed current infection; 0% reported that a doctor confirmed [they] have COVID-19, and [are] still infected.

1.3.3 | Demographic Trends in Personal COVID-19 Situations An additional detail to these results was that a higher proportion of men had experienced certain disruptions to their work situation than women. Of the 19% who had been laid off, furloughed or suspended, 64% were men and 36%16 were women. Gender differences were also identified in the proportion of people who experienced severe tensions within their household. Of those who reported severe tensions within their household, 60% were men, compared to 39% of women17.

What information do you wish you knew about the Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

Why people that are dying from different circumstances not COVID-19 but are being labeled ‘COVID_19 death’. Also, why is it that the areas 5G has been installed why are these areas affected more Woman, 25, Dublin

What information do you wish you knew about the Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

From a personal perspective and having developed two major virus infections (common cold) since the beginning of March, I would like to know whether or not there is a chance that one of these infections could have been COVID-19... so a test for antibodies! Woman, Dundalk

16 Margin of error: ±11% 17 Margins of error: ±8%, ±7% 70% 64%

60%

50%

40% 31% 30%

20%

10% 4% 0% 1% 0% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar

Working in ‘gig economy’ 1% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) <

Working in temporary 1% or seasonal job

Self-employed 3%

Looking for paid work 5%

Unpaid family or household work 9% 21%of the population Over one third of the believedStudent they would 18% population have experienced get sick with COVID-19 negative mental health due Retired 20% at the time of this to COVID-19. research. Working in paid employment 48%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%

Most Scientific evidence valued 38% of people in 40% for paid employment39% started COVID-19 Advice from 34%working from home as a decisions medical result of COVID-19. 30% doctors

20% 19%

11% 10% SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report PAGE 15 Some members2% of the public0% reported less of the I have lost My work hours I have been laid None74% of I have started interest1.4 my | job in COVID-19 healthhave been (37%), off, Media furloughed Behaviourthesepopulationworking were found to reduced or my job has been situations from home technology (37%), and suspended applybe supportive of making science news (39%). a future COVID-19 60% Section Summary Key findingsvaccine54% mandatory. 50%This section sets out the Irish public’s information RTÉ News was the most popular news source behaviour and sources in terms of science news, (60%), and was primarily accessed through 40%specifically through the live case study of COVID-19. television (60%), compared to radio (39%), news 34% website; (39%) mobile app (38%) and social media (29%). 30% More than two-thirds of people (70%) accessed 20% 19% information about COVID-19 through their primary newsMore source on than a daily basis. two-thirds 10% People reportedof people more interest (70%) in popular accessed RTÉ5% News was entertainment news (88%), government and information about COVID-19 0% the most popular politics news (64%), and arts and style news (74%), Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these newsmajor medicalsource (60%).severe tensions negatively Some membersthroughsituations of applythe public their reported primary less news treatment. in the household. affectedinterest insource health (37%), on technology a daily (37%), basis. and science news (39%).

1.4.1 | Change in News Interest These results show the change in level of the public’s interest in certain news categories compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic.

2% 2% Government and Politics 32% 40% 23% 1% 4% News in general 26% 39% 30%

Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3%

T Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4%

2% 2%

Art & style news 32% 40% 23%

1% 3% Popular 8% 52% entertainment news 36% 3%

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10%

4.5% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

Figure 10. Change in the level of interest in different news categories compared to before COVID-19 - “During the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, have you been more or less interested in following:”18

18 Margin of error: ±5% n (top to bottom): 887, 885, 868, 883, 885, 890, 850, 876

1.9% 2.2%

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4%

1.2% 2.6%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

Unsure: 13%

Yes: 12%

No: 75%

60% 58%

40% 39%

20%

4% 0% 1% 0% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I infected but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been had a confirmed test negative tested test

2% 3% 2% Getting sick with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) 16% 77% can be serious.

I will probably get sick with the Coronavirus 7% 36% 36% 18% 3% (COVID-19).

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 1% will not affect very many 25% 42% 18% 14% people in my community.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree

Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination when 7% 9% 10% 30% 45% it is available.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably

11% Perceived priorities Public opinion 12% Favoured priorities

20% Minimizing disruption to normal life 33%

International 26% influences 13%

Political 29% considerations 2%

45% Scientific evidence 81%

Economic 61% considerations 34%

Advice from 68% medical doctors 81%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%

Irish Examiner <1%

Breakingnews.ie 2%

British News 2%

TheJournal.ie 4%

Irish Independent 6%

Irish Times 11%

Other (please specify) 15%

RTÉ News 60%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55%

50% 50%

40% 40%

30%

20%

10% 6% 3% 2% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times

60% 60%

50%

40% 39% 39% 39%

29% 30%

20% 17%

10%

0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper

80% 70%

60%

40%

20% 12% 6% 4% 5% 1% 2% 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily a week a week a week

<1% My primary news source provides reliable information 8% 9% 43% 40% about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust 70% 64%

60%

50%

40% 31% 30%

20%

10% 4% 0% 1% 0% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar

Working in ‘gig economy’ 1% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) <

Working in temporary 1% or seasonal job

Self-employed 3%

Looking for paid work 5%

Unpaid family or household work 9%

Student 18%

Retired 20%

Working in paid employment 48%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%

40% 39% 34%

30%

20% 19%

11% 10%

2% 0% I have lost My work hours I have been laid None of I have started my job have been off, furloughed these working reduced or my job has been situations from home suspended apply

60% 54% 50%

40% 34%

30%

20% 19%

10% 5%

0% Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply treatment. in the household. affected

2% 2% Government and Politics 32% 40% 23% 1% 4% News in general 26% 39% 30%

Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3%

T Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4%

2% 2%

Art & style news 32% 40% 23%

1% 3% Popular 8% 52% entertainment news 36% 3%

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10%

4.5% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

1.9% 2.2%

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4%

1.2% 2.6%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

Unsure: 13%

Yes: 12%

No: 75%

60% 58%

40% 39%

20%

4% 0% 1% 0% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I infected but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been had a confirmed test negative tested test

2% 3% 2% Getting sick with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) 16% 77% can be serious.

I will probably get sick with the Coronavirus 7% 36% 36% 18% 3% (COVID-19).

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 1% will not affect very many 25% 42% 18% 14% people in my community.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree

Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination when 7% 9% 10% 30% 45% it is available.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably

11% Perceived priorities Public opinion 12% Favoured priorities

20% Minimizing disruption to normal life 33%

International 26% influences 13%

Political 29% considerations 2% PAGE 16 SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report 45% Scientific evidence 81% As shown in Figure 40, we found the Irish population gained substantial interest in popular entertainment newsEconomic (88%), and became somewhat more interested in news in general (69%),61% considerations government & politics (64%) and arts & style news (74%) during34% the pandemic. Simultaneously, there was a loss of interest in health news (37%), technology news (37%), and science news (39%). This is a particularly notableAdvice from finding, considering the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic is an issue rooted68% medical doctors in health, science, and technology (when its management and potential bio-technical solutions are 81% considered). 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 21%of the population 1.4.2 | Primary COVID-19 News SourceOver one third of the believed they would Here, results are presented about the news sourcespopulation the population have used the experienced most to find information get sickabout with COVID-19. COVID-19 negative mental health due at the time of this to COVID-19. research. Irish Examiner <1%

Breakingnews.ie 2%

British News 2% Most Scientific evidence valued TheJournal.ie 4% of people in for paid38% employment started Advice COVID-19 Irish Independentfrom 6% working from home as a decisions medical result of COVID-19. Irishdoctors Times 11%

Other (please specify) 15%

RTÉ News 60%

Some members of the0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55% public reported less of the interest in healthFigure 11. (37%), 74%population were found to technologyPrimary (37%), news and source for information on COVID-19be supportive - “What primary of news making source do you use to stay informed about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation?”19 science news (39%). a future COVID-19 vaccine mandatory. 50% 50%

40% 40% What information do you wish you knew about the Coronavirus (COVID-19)? 30% More than two-thirds Feel well of people (70%) accessed RTÉ News20% informed was from information about COVID-19 the most popularthe news through their primary news news sourceWoman, (60%). 46, Tralee 10% source on a daily basis. 6% 3% 2% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times 19 Margin of error: ±5%, n = 729

60% 60%

50%

40% 39% 39% 39%

29% 30%

20% 17%

10%

0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper

80% 70%

60%

40%

20% 12% 6% 4% 5% 1% 2% 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily a week a week a week

<1% My primary news source provides reliable information 8% 9% 43% 40% about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust 70% 64%

60%

50%

40% 31% 30%

20%

10% 4% 0% 1% 0% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar

70% 64%

60%

50%

Working in ‘gig economy’ 1% 40% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) < 31% Working in temporary 30% 1% or seasonal job

20% Self-employed 3%

10% Looking for paid work 5% 4% 0% 1% 0% Unpaid family or Not at all Slightly Somewhat9% Moderately Moderately Familiar household workFamiliar Familiar Familiar Familiar

Student 18%

Retired 20%

WorkingWorking in paid in employment ‘gig economy’ 1% 48% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) <

Working in temporary 0% 1%5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% or seasonal job

Self-employed 3%

Looking for paid work 5%

Unpaid family or household work 9% 40% 39% Student 18% 34% Retired 20% 30%

Working in paid employment 48%

20% 0% 5% 10% 19%15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%

11% 10%

2% 0% 40% I have lost My work hours I have been laid None of I have39% started my job have been off, furloughed these working reduced or my job has been situations34% from home suspended apply 30% 60% 54%

50% 20% 19%

40% 11% 34% 10% 30% 2% 20% 19% 0% I have lost My work hours I have been laid None of I have started 10% my job have been off, furloughed these working 5% reduced or my job has been situations from home suspended apply 0% Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these 60% major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply treatment. in the household. affected 54% 50%

40% 34%

30%

20% 19%

10% 2% 2% Government 5% and Politics 32% 40% 23% 0% 4% Have 1%postponed Experienced Mental health None of these News in generalmajor medical 26%severe tensions negatively39% situations apply 30% treatment. in the household. affected

Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3%

T Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4%

2% 2%

Art & style news 32% 40% 23% 2% 1%2%3% GovernmentPopular 8% 32% 40% 52% 23% entertainmentand news Politics 36% 1% 4% 3% News in general 26% 39% 30% Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10%

4.5% Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3% T Technology news 53% 0% 10%18% 20% 18%30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90%7% 100%4% 2% 2% Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested Art & style news 32% 40% 23%

1% 3% Popular 8% 52% entertainment news 36% 3%

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10%

4.5% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested1.9% 2.2% Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4%

1.2% 2.6%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3% 1.9% 2.2%

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 1.2% 2.6% Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6%

4.5% Science news 21.3% Unsure:17.4% 13% 53.8% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested Yes: 12%

Unsure: 13%

No: 75% Yes: 12%

60% 58%

No: 75%

40% 39%

20%60% 58%

4% 0% 1% 0%40% 39% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I infected but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been 20% had a confirmed test negative tested test

4% 0% 1% 0% A doctor confirmed A doctor said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or I have COVID-19, 2% wasa3% suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have 2% and I am still COVID-19 patient, but I have recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, but I Getting infectedsick with the but I have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been Coronavirus (COVID-19) had a confirmed16% test negative 77% tested can be serious. test

I will probably get sick with the Coronavirus 7% 36% 36% 18% 3% (COVID-19). 2% 3% 2% The CoronavirusGetting (COVID-19) sick with the 1% willCoronavirus not affect very (COVID-19) many 25%16% 42% 77% 18% 14% people in mycan community be serious..

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% I will probably get sick with the Coronavirus 7% 36% 36% 18% 3% (COVID-19). Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 1% will not affect very many 25% 42% 18% 14% people in my community.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Coronavirus Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree (COVID-19) vaccination when 7% 9% 10% 30% 45% it is available.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

VCoronavirusery Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably (COVID-19) vaccination when 7% 9% 10% 30% 45% it is available.

11% Perceived priorities Public opinion 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 12% Favoured priorities Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably 20% nor Unfavourably Minimizing disruption to normal life 33%

26% International 11% Perceived priorities Publicinfluences opinion 113%2% Favoured priorities

20% 29% Minimizing Politicaldisruption considerationsto normal life 2% 33%

International 26% 45% Scientific evidenceinfluences 13% 81%

29% EconomicPolitical 61% considerationsconsiderations 2% 34%

45% ScientificAdvice evidence from 68% medical doctors 81% 81%

Economic 61% considerations0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 34%

Advice from 68% medical doctors 81%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%

Irish Examiner <1%

Breakingnews.ie 2%

Irish Examiner <1% British News 2%

Breakingnews.ie 2% TheJournal.ie 4%

British News 2% Irish Independent 6%

TheJournal.ie 4% Irish Times 11%

Irish Independent Other 6% (please specify) 15%

Irish Times 11% RTÉ News 60% Other SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-1915% Research Report PAGE 17 (please specify)0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55%

RTÉ News 60% As Figure 11 shows, RTÉ News was by far the most popular news source, as 60% of the population selected it as their0% primary5% source10% for15% information20% 25% about30% COVID-19.35% The40% news45% sources50% for55% the 2% of people who selected British News as their main source of information can be seen below (Figure 12).

50% 50%

40% 40% 50% 50%

40% 30%40%

20%30%

10%20% 6% 3% 2% 0%10% 6% Other Financial3% The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify)2% Times 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News Figure 12.(please specify) Times Primary news source for information on COVID-19 if ‘British News’ selected - “Please specify your primary British news source:”20 Clearly, BBC News and Sky News were the most popular channels for those who preferred British news sources, with 50% and 40% of responses respectively.

1.4.3 | Accessing COVID-19 News Sources Knowing where the public gets their information is important to fully understand news habits during the COVID-19 pandemic. The figure below shows the distribution of population across which news mediums they used to access their primary news source. 60% 60% 60% 50%60%

40%50% 39% 39% 39% 39% 40% 29% 39% 39% 30% 29% 30% 20% 17% 20% 17% 10%

10% 0% 0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaperPrint Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television newspaper

Figure 13. Means of accessing the primary news source for information on COVID-19 - “How do you usually 80% access your primary news source?”21 80% 70% 70%

60% 60%

20 Margin of error: ±35% 40% n = 15 40% 21 Margin of error: ±5%. Respondents were able to select more than one news medium. n = 826 20%20% 12%12% 6%6% 5% 4%4% 5% 1%1% 2%2% 0% 0% NeverNever OnceOnce 2-32-3 times times OnceOnce 2-3 times 4-64-6 times times DailyDaily aa week week a week aa week week

<1%<1% My Myprimary primary news news source source provides reliable information provides reliable information 8%8% 9%9% 43% 40%40% aboutabout the the Coronavirus Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. (COVID-19) situation.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust 70% 64%

60%

50%

40% 31% 30%

20%

10% 4% 0% 1% 0% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar Familiar

70% Working in ‘gig economy’ 1% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) < 64% 60% Working in temporary 1% or seasonal job 50%

Self-employed 3% 40% 31% 30% Looking for paid work 5%

20% Unpaid family or household work 9%

10% 4% 0% Student1% 18% 0% Not at all Slightly Somewhat Moderately Moderately Familiar RetiredFamiliar Familiar Familiar20% Familiar

Working in paid employment 48%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%

Working in ‘gig economy’ 1% (e.g., rideshare, food delivery) <

Working in temporary 1% or seasonal job

Self-employed 3%

Looking for paid work 5% 40% 39%

Unpaid family or household work 9% 34%

30% Student 18%

Retired 20%

20% 19% Working in paid employment 48%

0%11%5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 10%

2% 0% I have lost My work hours I have been laid None of I have started my job have been off, furloughed these working reduced or my job has been situations from home 40% 39% suspended apply 34% 60% 30% 54% 50%

20% 19% 40% 34%

30% 11% 10%

20% 19% 2% 0% 10% I have lost My work hours I have been laid None of I have started 5%my job have been off, furloughed these working reduced or my job has been situations from home 0% suspended apply Have postponed Experienced Mental health None of these major medical severe tensions negatively situations apply 60% treatment. in the household. affected 54% 50%

40% 34%

30%

20% 19%

10% 2% 2% Government 5% and Politics 32% 40% 23% 0% Have1% postponed4% Experienced Mental health None of these News in generalmajor medical 26%severe tensions negatively39% situations apply 30% treatment. in the household. affected

Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3%

T Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4%

2% 2%

Art & style news 32% 40% 23% 2% 2% Government 3% and Politics1% 32% 40% 23% Popular 4%8% 52% entertainment news 1% 36% 26% 39% 30% News in general3%

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10% Health news 17% 20% 50% 10% 3% 4.5% T Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3% Technology news 18% 18% 53% 7% 4%

2% 2% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Art & style news 32% 40% 23% Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested 1% 3% Popular 8% 52% entertainment news 36% 3%

Sport news 7% 53% 28% 10%

4.5% Science News 21% 17% 54% 5% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interested About the same More interested Much more interested

1.9% 2.2%

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4%

1.2% 2.6%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 3.1%

Sport news 6.7% 52.8% 27.8% 9.6% 1.9% 2.2%

Art & style news 32.3% 40.3% 23.4% 4.5% Science news 1.2% 2.6%21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

Popular 8.1% 36.4% 51.7% entertainment news 0% 3.1% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

MuchSport less news interested6.7% Less interested 52.8% About the same More interested27.8% Much9.6% more interested

4.5% Science news 21.3% 17.4% 53.8% 3%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Much less interested Less interestedUnsure: About13% the same More interested Much more interested

Yes: 12% Unsure: 13%

Yes: 12%

No: 75%

No: 75%

60% 58%

60% 58% 40% 39%

40% 39%

20%

20% 4% 0% 1% 0% 4% A doctor confirmed0% A doctor 1%said I A doctor confirmed A doctor said I was I might have had or 0%I have COVID-19, wasa suspected I have COVID-19, a suspected currently have andA doctorI am still confirmed COVID-19A doctor patient, said I butA doctor I have confirmed recovered A doctorCOVID-19 said I waspatient, I might haveCOVID-19, had or but I infectedI have COVID-19, but wasaI have suspected not yet I haveand COVID-19, now buta suspected I tested negative currentlyhave have not been and I am still hadCOVID-19 a confirmed patient, but Itest have negative recovered COVID-19 patient, COVID-19, buttested I infected but Itest have not yet and now but I tested negative have not been had a confirmed test negative tested test

2% 3% 2%2% 3% 2% Getting sick with the Getting sick with the 16% 77% CoronavirusCoronavirus (COVID-19) (COVID-19) 16% 77% can becan serious. be serious.

I will probablyI will probably get sickget sick 7% 36% 36% 3% with thewith Coronavirus the Coronavirus 7% 36% 36% 18% 18% 3% (COVID-19). (COVID-19).

The Coronavirus (COVID-19) 1% The Coronaviruswill not affect(COVID-19) very many 25% 42% 18% 14% 1% will notpeople affect in verymy community many . 25% 42% 18% 14% people in my community. 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree

Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Strongly Agree

Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination when 7% 9% 10% 30% 45% Coronavirusit is available. (COVID-19) vaccination when 7% 9% 10% 30% 45% it is available. 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Very Unfavourably Mainly Neither Favourably Mainly Favourably Very Favourably Unfavourably nor Unfavourably 11% Perceived priorities Public opinion 12% Favoured priorities

20% Minimizing disruption 11% to normal life Perceived priorities Public opinion 33% 12% Favoured priorities International 26% influences 20% Minimizing disruption 13% to normal life 33% Political 29% considerations 2% International 26% influences 13% 45% Scientific evidence 81% Political 29% considerationsEconomic 2% 61% considerations 34% 45% Scientific evidenceAdvice from 68% medical doctors 81% 81%

Economic 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 61%70% 80% considerations 34%

Advice from 68% medical doctors 81%

Irish Examiner <1% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80%

Breakingnews.ie 2%

British News 2%

Irish Examiner <1% TheJournal.ie 4%

Breakingnews.ieIrish Independent 2% 6%

British IrishNews Times 2% 11%

Other (please specify) 15% TheJournal.ie 4%

RTÉ News 60% Irish Independent 6% 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55%

Irish Times 11%

Other (please specify) 15%

50% 50%RTÉ News 60%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%40% 35% 40% 45% 50% 55% 40%

30%

20% 50% 50% 10% 6% 3% 2% 40% 40% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times 30%

20%

10% 6% 3% 2% 0% Other Financial The Guardian Sky News BBC News (please specify) Times

60% 60%

50%

40% 39% 39% 39%

29% 30%

20% 17%

PAGE10% 18 SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report

0% Print Social media Mobile app News website Radio Television Overall, newspapertelevision was identified as the most popular news medium with 60% of the population selecting it as the way they accessed their primary news source for information about COVID-19. Radio, 60% 60% news websites and mobile apps were equally popular, with 38%-39% of the population selecting these as usual ways to access the news, followed by social media, with 29%. 50%

80% 40% 39% 39% 39% 70% 29% 30% 60%

20% 17% 40% 10%

0% 20% Print Social media Mobile app News website 12%Radio Television 6% newspaper 4% 5% 1% 2% 0% Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily a week a week a week

Figure 14 80% Frequency in accessing information on COVID-19 through the primary news source - “In the last <1% 30 days, how often have you turned to your primary source for information about the70% Coronavirus (COVID-19)My primary situation?” news source22 provides reliable information 60% 8% 9% 43% 40% about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation. About two-thirds (70%) reported accessing their primary source on a daily basis to receive information 40% or updates related to the COVID-190% 10% situation.20% All other30% frequencies40% 50% were 60%much less70% represented,80% 90% with 100% 4-6 times a week at 12%, followed by 2-3 times a week (5%), once a week (7%), 2-3 times (4%), once (2%), and never (1%).Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust

20% 12% 6% 4% 5% 1% 2% 0% 1.4.4 | Trust in COVID-19 News Sources Never Once 2-3 times Once 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily The next measure was trust in primary newsa sourcesweek to providea week reliable informationa week concerning COVID-19. The majority (82%) of the Irish population showed general confidence in this regard, with 40% completely trusting their primary source, although the median and most popular response was partially trust (43%).

<1% My primary news source provides reliable information 8% 9% 43% 40% about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation.

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

Completely distrust Partially distrust Neither distrust nor trust Partially trust Completely trust

Figure 15. Trust in primary news source to provide reliable information on COVID-19 - “Please indicate to what extent you distrust or trust your primary news source for reliable information about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation:”23

22 Margin of error: ±5%, n = 835 23 n = 842 SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report PAGE 19

1.4.5 | Demographic Trends in COVID-19 News and Information Slight gender differences were observed with those who used print newspaper to access their primary news source, with most being women (69%) compared to men (32%)24. Another notable finding was that with increasing age, people in Ireland tended to access their primary sources slightly more frequently25. Further, we found significant differences in how various age groups access their primary news source for information on COVID-1926. For the age ranges between 15-24 and 45-65+, television was the most popular means of accessing COVID-19 news. News websites were the most popular platforms for age groups 25-29 (60%), 30-34 (38%), and 45-59 (52%). However, trends on the basis of age and social media usage were also apparent, with a majority of 20-24-year- olds (56%) and more than one-third of 30-34-year-olds (37%) accessing their primary news source through social media. For the age group 35-39, social media was the most popular means (45%). Mobile apps were predominantly used by the 25-29 (57%) and 40-44 (59%) age groups. Geographically, differences between people from Dublin city and the rest of the country were evident. People from Dublin city tended to be more interested in ‘health news’ than before the COVID-19 pandemic (Table 1).27 Specifically, more than one-third (37%) of Dublin residents followed ‘health news’ 4-6 times a week, while only 7% of people from the rest of the country followed ‘health news’ with this frequency.

Table 1. Cross-tabulation showing the level of interest in health news compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic across residents from Dublin city and the rest of the country.28,29

Level of Interest proportions in %

Location Much less Less About the More Much more Total interested interested same interested interested Rest of country 18 20 53 7 2 100 Dublin city 10 18 32 34 6 100 Total 17 20 51 10 3 100

Further differences were found between these residency categories when it came to interest in ‘art and style news’ as compared to before COVID-19 (Table 2).30 Here, a general difference was observed in distribution of responses across all categories.

What information do you wish you knew about the Coronavirus (COVID-19)?

There is a lot of conflicting information about a second wave of COVID-19, that there probably will be another surge of coronavirus cases and another severe lockdown. I don’t know what to believe. Man, 42, Dublin

24 Margin of error: ±5% 25 rs = -.27, p < .001 26 χ2(60) = 466.781, p < .001, V = .33 27 χ2(4) = 79.275, p < .001, V = .30

28 nrest of country = 785, nDublin = 100 29 In this report, individual percentage counts are rounded. Using the raw data, all totals equal 100%. 30 χ2(4) = 79.529, p < .001, V = .30 PAGE 20 SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report

Table 2. Cross-tabulation showing the level of interest in art and style news compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic across residents from Dublin city and the rest of the country.31

Level of Interest proportions in %

Location Much less Less About the More Much more Total interested interested same interested interested Rest of country 0 3 24 45 28 100 Dublin city 8 0 8 67 17 100 Total 1 3 22 48 26 100

People with different levels of formal education also exhibited significant moderate differences in interest in ‘science news’ when compared to pre-COVID-19 times (Table 3).32 Most notably, people with primary education became much more interested in ‘science news’ (30%) than people with other education levels. For example, the next highest proportion was 7%, populated by people with lower secondary education.

Table 3. Cross-tabulation showing the level of interest in science news compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic across levels of education.33

Level of Interest proportions in %

Formal education Much less Less About the More Much more Total interested interested same interested interested No formal education/training 25 0 75 0 0 100 Primary education 33 37 0 0 30 100 Lower Secondary 20 4 68 1 7 100 Upper Secondary 29 24 41 5 1 100 Technical or Vocational 49 15 36 0 0 100 Advanced Certificate/ 8 31 60 0 0 100 Completed Apprenticeship Higher Certificate 7 7 61 24 0 100 Ordinary Bachelor Degree or 14 13 69 5 0 100 National Diploma Honours Bachelor Degree/ 11 26 55 6 1 100 Professional qualification or both Postgraduate Diploma or 11 19 64 6 0 100 Degree Doctorate (Ph.D.) or higher 14 29 57 0 0 100 Total 21 18 54 5 3 100

31 nrest of country = 772, nDublin = 97 32 χ2(40) = 352.504, p < .001, V = .32 33 n (top to bottom): 52, 43, 150, 189, 74, 48, 54, 64, 110, 83, 7 21%of the population Over one third of the believed they would population have experienced SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report PAGE 21 get sick with COVID-19 negative mental health due at the time of this There were rather large statistically significant differences amongst ethnic groups regarding frequency to COVID-19. of accessing primary news sources for COVID-19research. information (Table 4)34. Specifically, about one-third (34%) of people of Other Ethnic Groups35 accessed their primary news source once in the last 30 days, while only 1% of people in White Ethnic Groups did this.

Table 4. Cross-tabulation showing the frequency of accessing the primary news source for COVID-19 in the last 30 days across White people and people from Other Ethnic Groups.36

Frequency proportions in % Scientific Ethnic Group Never MostOnce 2-3 times Once a 2-3 times 4-6 times Daily Total weekevidencea week a week Other Ethnic Groups 0 valued34 0 0 3 13 50 100 of people in White Ethnic Groups 1 1 for4 7 5 12 71 100 paid38% employment started Total 1 2 4 6 Advice5 12 70 100 COVID-19 from working from home as a decisions medical result of COVID-19. doctors

Some members of the public reported less of the interest in health (37%), 74%population were found to technology (37%), and be supportive of making science news (39%). a future COVID-19 vaccine mandatory.

2 More than two-thirds 34 χ(6) = 188.556, p < .001, V = .48 35 The ethnicities were grouped under this term because the sample sizes were too small to allow for meaningful comparisons. of people (70%) accessed The term ‘other ethnic groups’ is referringRTÉ to ‘Black orNews Irish Black’ and ‘Asian orwas Irish Asian’ hereafter. 36 Ethnic groups: n = 802, n = 32 white other the most popular information about COVID-19 news source (60%). through their primary news source on a daily basis. Discussion

We found high levels of self-reported This was shown by the fact that the majority familiarity with COVID-19 within the of the population (79%) either felt neutrally towards or disagreed with the idea that they ‘will Irish population. The results show that probably get sick with coronavirus’. Only 12% of the population was taking the virus the population suspected they had or have had seriously and did not underestimate the COVID-19, and of these people, only a very small potential impact it could have on their proportion actually tested positive (4%). communities. However, the Irish public The majority of the population (74%) were found to be supportive of making a future COVID-19 were generally less concerned about vaccine mandatory. However, the importance of their personal risk of contracting the widespread vaccine uptake means the 15% of the virus. population who expressed negative sentiment towards a mandatory vaccine must be taken seriously by health authorities. Qualitative responses to the open-ended question, ‘What information do you wish you knew about the Coronavirus (COVID-19)?’, suggest that information on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines (supplying scientific information about risks or lack thereof) may be crucial for improving the uptake of vaccines. 21%of the population Over one third of the believed they would population have experienced get sick with COVID-19 SFI Science in Ireland Barometernegative 2020 | COVID-19 mentalResearch Report health due PAGE 23 at the time of this to COVID-19. research. In terms of attitudes towards government decision- On a more individual level, the results of this making about managing the COVID-19 pandemic, a research show that the most common change to key finding was that the public generally perceived work situations was the switch to working from the government as placing too much emphasis on home (38%), for those able to make this change. economic and political considerations (perception- The population experienced other disruptions to expectation gap: -27%) when making decisions, employment, including reduction in working hours as opposed to scientific evidence (perception- (11%) and temporary or permanent suspension from expectation gap: +36%). This connects with the work (19%). While the majority of the population Most Scientific public’s positive perception of science in terms of had not experienced any negative mental health evidence its role in addressing societal challenges. The strong effects (66%) or tensions within the household (80%), valued attitudes about government decision-making of were people an important in finding remains in the fact that just in the context of high levels38% of interest in news over a third (35%) of the Irish public’s mental health for about the pandemic. Namely,paid 70% employment of people were had started been negatively affected by the pandemic. COVID-19 Advice checking COVID-19 news daily with RTÉ News as the This may suggest that support services targeting from primary information sourceworking (60%) and television from homemental healthas a will be an important consideration for decisions medical as the most popular mediaresult channel of (60%). COVID-19. In other policymakers and public health professionals. words, most people were seeking information to doctors stay up to date on pandemic-related developments, including the government’s actions. However, despite the majority of the population checking COVID-19 news daily (70%), most of the population did not highlight an increase in interest in news more generally about science (92%) or health (87%). This may suggest a public perception of the COVID-19 pandemic response as more of a societal/political phenomenon. This is despite a noticeable perception of the pandemic as medical in nature, evidenced by Some members of the the fact that the majority (68%) of people expected public reported less policy-makers to be most influenced by medicalof the health professionals.74% While an argument could be interest in health (37%), made that there maypopulation be a growing fatigue with were found to COVID-19-related news, we have not found support technology (37%), and for this as an alternativebe explanation. supportive Rather, this of making science news (39%). alternative explanationa futureis unlikely, given COVID-19 the trend of an overall increase in consumption of science news/ information comparedvaccine to 201837. mandatory.

More than two-thirds of people (70%) accessed RTÉ News was the most popular information about COVID-19 news source (60%). through their primary news source on a daily basis.

37 See the SFI Barometer 2020 Research Report. Conclusion

This research took place in Ireland This is evidenced through public concern for its during the peak of the COVID-19 effect on Irish communities but relatively low assessments of personal risk (see section 1.1.2). pandemic in 2020. It found that the The public generally perceived the government Irish public were highly responsive and as placing too much emphasis on economic engaged with information about the and political factors when making decisions, COVID-19 pandemic. The majority were as opposed to scientific evidence. However, the public perceived the government to be checking the news daily via television listening to medical health experts (see section - mostly RTÉ News (see section 1.4). 1.2), suggesting that there is a perception of the However, this research shows that response as medical in nature. Over a third of the public may have been viewing the Irish public indicated experiencing negative effects on their mental health (see section 1.3.2). the pandemic response as more of a These findings will further connect with political/social issue than a scientific research in 2021 to explore changes in the one. Irish public’s attitudes. It will explore how experiences and views towards COVID-19 and government decisions in 2020 compare to science attitudes that may be evident at a later stage of the pandemic in 2021.

SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report PAGE 25

Appendices PAGE 26 SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report 4 Appendix A: Irish COVID-19 Rules and Restrictions Timeline in 202038

24 March National Public Health Emergency Team announced that people seeking testing for COVID-19 will have to display two major symptoms rather than one before they are referred.

5 May National Public Health Emergency Team announced a change in testing criteria, wherein people only need to have a sudden onset of a cough, fever or shortness of breath and no other cause that explains their illness in order to be eligible for testing.

29 June Ireland entered phase three of the government’s roadmap of easing COVID-19 restrictions.39

15 July The Taoiseach announced that phase four of easing COVID-19 restrictions will not go ahead on 20 July and was postponed to 10 August. Following a Cabinet meeting at Dublin Castle, the Government of Ireland announced five key priority areas: Face coverings must be worn in all shops and shopping centres. Retail staff will also be required to wear them unless there is a partition in place or there is social distancing of 2 metres between them and customers. Pubs, hotel bars, nightclubs and casinos will remain closed until 10 August. Pubs currently serving food can remain open. Social visits to people’s homes should be limited to a maximum of ten people from no more than four different households. Current restrictions of 50 people in indoor gatherings, 200 at outdoor gatherings, is being extended until 10 August. It is continuing to advise against all non-essential travel.

38 Dates and events listed here were identified from Wikipedia and cross-referenced against government and Health Service Executive sources for accuracy. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/COVID-19_pandemic_in_the_Republic_of_Ireland#Timeline 39 For details on the restrictions within phase three: https://www.thejournal.ie/phase-three-ireland-measures-5133752- Jun2020/ https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/6c9cf-daily-briefing-on-the-governments-response-to-covid-19-wednesday-1st- july-2020/ SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report PAGE 27

19 July A green list for safe travel, due to be published by the Government of Ireland on 20 July, was postponed due to ongoing negotiations in Brussels, where the Taoiseach was attending an EU summit. People coming into Ireland from countries on the list will not be required to quarantine for a 14-day period. Arrivals from countries not on the green list are required to quarantine.

23 July The Government of Ireland launched a €7.4 billion July Jobs Stimulus package of 50 measures to boost economic recovery and get people back to work, with the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment and the Temporary COVID-19 Wage Subsidy Scheme extended until April 2021.

27 July The Taoiseach, the Minister for Education and the Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion announced a €376 million support package and roadmap to reopen all schools in Ireland at the end of August. It included additional teachers and special needs assistants, personal protective equipment and stepped-up cleaning regimes.

4 August Following a Cabinet meeting at Dublin Castle, the Government of Ireland announced six key priority areas: Phase four of easing COVID-19 restrictions will not go ahead on 10 August. Pubs, bars, hotel bars, nightclubs and casinos will remain closed. Restaurants and pubs serving food will now have to close by 11pm, but takeaways and deliveries can remain open after that time. Face coverings will be mandatory in all shops and shopping centres from 10 August. Five countries—Malta, Cyprus, Gibraltar, San Marino and Monaco—have been removed from the green list of countries identified as safe to travel to. Current restrictions of 50 people in indoor gatherings, 200 at outdoor gatherings will remain in place.

7 August The Taoiseach announced a series of measures for counties Kildare, Laois and Offaly following significant increases of COVID-19 cases in the three counties, which will come into effect from midnight and will remain in place for two weeks. Measures include: Residents of the three counties will not be permitted to travel outside of their counties, except for in limited circumstances including to travel to and from work. Restaurants, cafés, pubs serving food, cinemas, gyms, theatres, museums, galleries, bingo halls, casinos, betting shops, leisure centres and other indoor recreational and cultural outlets will be closed. All retail outlets may remain open but with strict adherence to public health guidelines, including the wearing of face coverings. All indoor gatherings will be restricted to 6 people and outdoor gatherings restricted to 15 people.

10 August Face coverings were made mandatory in all shops, shopping centres, libraries, cinemas, museums, nail salons, hairdressers, dry cleaners, betting stores, tattooists and travel agents, PAGE 28 SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report

with fines of up to €2,500 or a prison sentence of six months to people who do not comply.

12 August It was announced that the Government of Ireland intends to move away from the phases of re-opening the country, and switch to a colour-coded system planned by the National Public Health Emergency Team to indicate how counties, regions and the country as a whole are currently affected by COVID-19.

18 August Following a Cabinet meeting at Government Buildings, the Government of Ireland announced six new measures because of the growing number of confirmed cases, which will remain in place until at least 13 September: All outdoor events will be limited to 15 people All indoor events will be limited to 6 people, except for religious services, weddings and businesses, such as shops and restaurants Gardaí will be given new powers to enforce rules around social gatherings in restaurants and bars serving food, and in private homes Restaurants and cafés can remain open with closing times of 11.30pm People will be advised to work from home and to avoid using public transport, unless absolutely necessary Sports events and matches will revert to behind closed doors with strict avoidance of social gatherings before and after events

3 September As part of the July Jobs Stimulus, the Taoiseach, the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media launched the Stay and Spend Scheme to help drive sales in the hospitality sector during the off-season which has been negatively impacted as a result of COVID-19, which will run from 1 October 2020 to 30 April 2021.

9 September The Government of Ireland announced that measures introduced on 18 August will be extended until Tuesday 15 September as a new roadmap for “living with COVID-19” will be announced, which will include a colour-coded, five-level system to indicate what public health measures are in place in different areas of the country at any given time. SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report PAGE 29 5 Appendix B: Glossary40

Attitude: In psychology, an attitude represents a person’s positive or negative assessment of a thing, person, topic, or issue (the attitude object). Attitudes consist of two components: affect and cognition.

Affect: Affect is an attitude component and refers to feelings and emotions generated by stimulation through a thing, person, topic, or issue (the attitude object).

Cognition: Cognition is an attitude component and is related to knowledge, thoughts, beliefs, and attributes one associates with a thing, person, topic, or issue (the attitude object).

Average: The average, or mean, is the sum of all values divided by the total number of values. For instance, the mean of the numbers 6, 4, 2, 1, 3, and 6 is 3.7.

Chi-square test: This test is used when you want to evaluate whether two categorical variables are related.

Cognitive testing: The process of administering, and gaining detailed feedback on, all or part of a survey prior to the main survey with a smaller sample size in order to confirm that the intended meanings of your survey questions are clear to your respondents and that any directions you provide can be easily and accurately followed.

Correlation: The extent to which two variables have a relationship dependent on each other. For example, there is a correlation between eating high quantities of fatty foods and gaining weight.

Cramér’s V: This test is used as a follow-up after a statistically significant chi-square result to determine the size of the effect.

Effect size: The effect size is a number representing the strength of the relationship between two variables. The larger this number is, the stronger the relationship.

Inferential statistics: Inferential statistics are numbers resulting from calculations which enable generalizations about a population from collected data with a known level of certainty that the results accurately reflect reality within a certain range. This is done, for example, by testing hypotheses and deriving estimates.

Likert-type scale: A Likert-type scale is typically a statement with a set of response options, allowing a respondent to indicate, for example, their level of agreement with a statement in a way that can be readily converted to numbers for analysis.

Margin of error: In statistics, the margin of error describes the amount of randomly occurring error that will happen during the process of generating data. Typically, the larger the sample size, the smaller the margin of error, and the more likely the results can be generalised accurately within a smaller range.

40 Disclaimer: These are highly simplified definitions, not meeting scientific standards. PAGE 30 SFI Science in Ireland Barometer 2020 | COVID-19 Research Report

Median: When ranking the numbers in a set of data from the smallest to the largest number, the median represents the exact mid-point, or the most central number. For instance, the median of the set of numbers 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 is 4.

Mode: The mode is the most frequently occurring value or attribute in one set of data. For instance, among the set of numbers 6, 4, 2, 1, 3, and 6, the mode is 6.

Populous: Densely populated - here, it refers to the amount of people in a category or group.

Qualitative: Qualitative data represent observable phenomena which cannot be described by numbers and are subject to interpretation. Interview transcripts, for instance, are qualitative data which need to be systematically interpreted and organised in order to make valid assumptions about them. In this report, the blue text bubbles show qualitative data.

Quantitative: Quantitative data refers to set quantities, and therefore numbers. For example, the tables and figures in the results present quantitative findings.

Reliability: In statistics, reliability describes the overall consistency of a measure. When similar results are measured under constant conditions, the reliability assumption is achieved.

Sentiment: This refers to a feeling or opinion held or expressed.

Socio-demographics: This refers to characteristics of a population, such as gender, age, income, ethnicity, education, etc.

Spearman’s Rho: In statistics, Spearman’s Rho describes the correlation or relationship between two variables.

Statistical significance: When findings are statistically significant (e.g., at a confidence level of 5%), it means that they are probably not the result of pure chance (e.g., with a 95% probability).

Stratified random sampling: In statistics, stratified sampling is a sampling method in which the total population is divided into subpopulations, dependent on certain (socio-demographic) characteristics. Random samples are then selected from each subpopulation.

Validation: Validation describes the process of assessing something in terms of its validity and how they can be used in statistical analysis.

Validity: Validity is the extent to which a measurement instrument actually measures what it is supposed to measure. For example, a scale that is broken and does not display the correct weight provides invalid data. Valid research findings are those that closely correspond to the objective or subjective reality of the situation you are studying.

Variable: In statistics, a variable is a specific measure of an attribute (e.g., length or colour). Within a variable, different values from different measurements can vary - hence the name ‘variable’. For instance, age can be a variable for which data was collected and which varies between respondents. Science Foundation Ireland Three Park Place, Hatch Street Upper, Dublin 2, D02 FX65 t: + 353 1 607 3200 e: [email protected] w: www.sfi.ie @scienceirel