Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 June 2020
1270. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if further clarity will be provided to photographers and other artists on the way in which they can ensure compliance with Covid-19 restrictions when they return to work; and if detailed guidance will be made available to assist photographers and other artists to comply with same. [8536/20]
View answer1273. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business identifies the final phase as the likely phase for the re-opening of cinemas; if she has compared this to the re-opening dates identified for cinemas in other European countries; if she has made representations to the Minister for Health on same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8706/20]
View answer1278. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if she or her officials have made representations to the Minister for Health on the impact the imposition of a social distancing requirement of two metres would have on theatres, cinemas and other cultural events; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8712/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1270, 1273 and 1278 together.
The Government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society & Business, published on 1 May 2020, sets out an indicative path to the easing of COVID 19 restrictions and other actions in order to facilitate the reopening Ireland’s society and economy in a phased manner. The Roadmap specifies that decisions in relation to which actions will be taken and which public health measures might be lifted will be made in accordance with the Framework for Future Decision-Making.
The Government will decide on the easing of restrictions having regard to the advice of the Department of Health as well as other social and economic considerations. I understand also that the Department of Health will also provide risk-based public health advice on what measures could be modified.
On 9 May, the Government issued guidance on returning to the workplace as part of its suite of responses to the COVID-19 situation. The Return to Work Safely Protocol is a guide for organisations in making their assessments and adapting their workplace procedures and practices to comply fully with the COVID-19 related public health protection measures identified as necessary by the HSE. It sets out in very clear terms for organisations the steps that they must take firstly before a workplace reopens, and then while it continues to operate. It is a matter for all employers to ensure their workplaces are safe for staff and customers/audiences alike.
The Health and Safety Authority is the lead agency in overseeing compliance with the Protocol in the workplace. Employers and employees can contact the Health and Safety authority helpline on 1890 289 389 or by email at wcu@hsa.ie
Issues of social distancing requirements and their effect on the culture sector are being monitored and assessed as part of the ongoing process of engagement with stakeholders on sectorial impacts.
