Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 May 2020
714. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the units in his Department currently working remotely; the units still in situ; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7221/20]
View answer715. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the activities of his Department which have been curtailed as a result of the transition to working from home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7222/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 714 and 715 together.
All Divisions in my Department commenced working remotely following the announcement in March of national requirements to work from home, where possible, to combat Covid 19.
In line with the Roadmap for Re-opening Society and Business, staff are continuing to work remotely. However, along with all Government Departments, my Department is making preparations for the implementation of the Return to Work Safely Protocol to allow for a phased, and safe, return to our offices over the coming months.
Since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic my Department has worked to minimise the impact on the sectors of the economy for which it has policy responsibility. While staff in the Department continue to focus on the delivery of business priorities set out in our Statement of Strategy, the Deputy will appreciate that it has been challenging to continue to provide a ‘business as usual service’ in all respects. For example:
- A number of meetings, events and public engagement activities have been cancelled or deferred.
- The Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI) field programmes including the Tellus mapping programme, Geological Mapping, Groundwater fieldwork and the INFOMAR inshore marine mapping are currently being delayed or temporarily postponed as new COVID19 Standard Operating Procedures are finalised.
- Retrofit activity supported by SEAI grant schemes has been suspended due to COVID-19 related restrictions but will recommence in line with national guidance.
