Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 June 2020
470. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if there is a contact facility at which consumers can raise their concerns regarding inadequate Covid-19 measures employed by some businesses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9181/20]
View answerThe Government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business sets out five stages for unlocking the restrictions put in place to contain the Coronavirus, at three week intervals. The Roadmap sets out how we can keep the level of transmission of COVID-19 as low as possible while balancing continuing restrictions in proportion with the positive social and economic benefits which will be brought about by businesses reopening.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is an independent statutory body with a dual mandate to enforce competition and consumer protection law in Ireland. The CCPC continues to deliver on its statutory functions. A Covid 19 Information Hub can be accessed on the CCPC website at https://www.ccpc.ie/consumers/covid-19/ which provides information in relation to consumer rights and obligations on businesses in relation to Covid 19.
The National Return to Work Safely Protocol is a useful guide for businesses in making their assessments and adapting their workplace procedures and practices to comply fully with the COVID-19 related public health protection measures. It sets out in very clear terms for employers and employees the steps that they must take firstly before a workplace reopens, and then while it continues to operate. The Protocol is available at https://dbei.gov.ie/en/Publications/Return-to-Work-Safely-Protocol.html
The Health and Safety Authority, which is an agency of my Department, is the lead agency in overseeing compliance with the National Return to Work Safely Protocol in the workplace. If employers or employees need further guidance on the Protocol, the HSA Helpline can be contacted at 1890 289 389 or wcu@hsa.ie.
