Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 May 2020
601. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if small and medium companies supplying protective equipment to hospitals are deemed essential workers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6334/20]
View answerGovernment advice provides that the manufacture of work-wear apparel or footwear and the manufacture of products necessary for the supply chain of essential services are deemed to be essential services. Further details are set out in https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/dfeb8f-list-of-essential-service-providers-under-new-public-health-guidelin/#manufacturing Employers are requested to refer to this guidance to decide whether their organisation is providing an essential service; it is not necessary to seek official authorisation
The supply of protective equipment is a very important part of assisting our frontline staff in fighting the Coronavirus and we welcome the contribution all such companies are making in the production of such supplies.
