Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 November 2020
206. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of HSA inspections at bookmakers each month since February 2020; the number found non-compliant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32373/20]
View answer232. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of HSA inspections that have taken place in bookmakers throughout the Covid-19 emergency; the number of these businesses found to be non-compliant as a result of these inspections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33641/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 206 and 232 together.
In determining their programme of work in relation to workplace inspections the Health and Safety Authority carry out an assessment exercise based on various criteria before identifying what sectors and workplaces are inspected, a similar assessment is done regarding compliance with COVID-19 public health measures.
I have been informed by the Health and Safety Authority that since 1st March 2020 the Authority undertook 4 inspections in bookmakers which addressed COVID-19.
The findings from the inspections addressing COVID-19 are as follows:
- 100% of workplaces had COVID-19 measures in place.
- 100% of workplaces had COVID-19 Response plans in place.
- 75% of workplaces had a Lead Worker Rep.
The level of compliance found within this sector has been very good and this is in line with the generally high level of compliance with the Return to Work Safely Protocol, to date, across all sectors which is a positive indication that the majority of employers and employees are taking a responsible and proactive approach to compliance with the Protocol.
In addition to inspections, the Health and Safety Authority continues to provide advice and support to employers and employees on how best to implement COVID-19 measures in the workplace through its helpline and website. It has also developed checklists and templates for use by employers, workers and worker representatives, and further material is being developed.
Any employee who has concerns about compliance with COVID-19 issues, or any other workplace health and safety issue, can contact the Health and Safety Authority Workplace Contact Unit (WCU) on a confidential basis at 1890 289 389 or by sending an email to wcu@hsa.ie. If following such a complaint, there are serious concerns about a particular workplace, the Health and Safety Authority, or another agency or tasked with inspecting workplace compliance with the Protocol, will follow-up as appropriate.
