
Currently, those in need of a test must travel to Mullingar or Tullamore.
The Minister for Health says the need for a drive-thru testing facility in Athlone is being closely monitored.
Currently, those needing a test have to travel to Tullamore, which can carry out 600 tests per day - or Mullingar which can conduct 700 every 24 hours.
Portlaoise has another facility with a capacity of 500 swabs a day.
A temporary mobile testing unit was in operation in Athlone IT last week due to a jump in positive results in the area.
Minister of State and Longford-Westmeath Fianna Fáil TD Robert Troy says if cases keep rising, that centre will return and a full-time facility is being considered: