The sectors which fall within the remit of my Department have been severely impacted by the restrictions introduced by Government under its Plan for Living with COVID-19 to control the spread of the virus. Tourism, the Arts, Culture and Sport are integral to our society, our economy and our individual well-being, however, they are also public-facing and audience-driven in nature which means they carry greater risks for the transmission of the virus. To address this particular challenge and to support these sectors in operating, where it is determined by Government as being safe to do so, my Department has recently engaged the following two occupational health and safety consultancies:
- SLUA Event Safety Consultancy
- Eamon O'Boyle and Associates
These two companies provide advice and support to the Department and are involved in the Department's quality assurance process in respect of sectoral guidance developed in line with the Government's Plan for Living with COVID-19.
My Department has also commissioned Quadra Limited to support its health and safety workplace assessment for COVID-19 risks at its administrative offices.