In order to increase the test capacity, (X)L test sites for rapid tests and regular PCR tests are now being set up. The goal of this approach is that every Dutch person can visit a test site within a radius of maximum 45 minutes and can go for a test within foreseeable period of time. In this way, social and economic exchanges can be kept going.
These (X)L locations are the result of a unique collaboration between the business community, represented by VNO-NCW, the GGD's and the central government. At the request of VNO-NCW, former Commander of the Armed Forces, Tom Middendorp, took leadership in the collaboration.
Led by Dieuwke Hooft Graafland, a team of 12 Loyens & Loeff lawyers and tax specialists set to work immediately. Dieuwke explains: “Because we have in-house expertise in all necessary areas, both in terms of civil and tax matters, we were able to act very fast in this project. What is striking is that almost every colleague I call is more than willing to weigh in ideas and advise quickly. This allows us to contribute under high time pressure to a project of great importance. Not just for us personally, but for the entire economy. I think it's fantastic that Loyens & Loeff has been able to play such a crucial part in this project.”
Thanks in part to the efforts of Loyens & Loeff, the first Corona Rapid Test Street (X)L-location in Groningen was opened on 9 November. And last Monday followed the (so far) largest '(X)L test pavilion' in Utrecht. The upcoming weeks many more (X)L test streets will open throughout the Netherlands. Testing without symptoms, as announced by Minister Hugo de Jonge (Public Health) last Tuesday evening at the press conference, is made possible due to the (X)L-test locations and the extra testing capacity this will create.
