Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 June 2020
434. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the definition of small retail outlets in relation to the retail outlets listed as being allowed to open in phase 2 as per page 11 of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business; if this is defined by a specific size; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8600/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 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. It is important to note that all decisions taken by Government on the timing of any lifting of restrictions will be guided by the public health advice at the time.
On 15 May the Government announced that we would move to Phase 1 of the Roadmap from 18 May. https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/3736c7-government-approves-moving-to-phase-1-of-easing-covid-19-restriction/#list-of-retailers-that-can-open-on-18-may This decision was taken having regard to the advice received from the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) at the time.
Government continues to monitor progress on Phase 1 and will assess progress this week. As set out in the Roadmap, Phase 2 is a reopening based on size rather than sector. Government will provide further clarification on Phase 2 in line with the public health advice provided by National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) in advance.
Businesses should review the Roadmap carefully and carry out a detailed assessment of their activities with regard to the continuing public health measures. Businesses should, based on their assessment, identify which category in which phase of reopening they will be in a position to reopen safely and in line with the continued public health measures. It is not necessary for businesses to seek official authorisation to reopen.
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.
A wide range of financial supports and guidance has been made available by my Department and wider Government to help businesses impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. Full details of all supports and guidance is available at https://dbei.gov.ie/en/What-We-Do/Supports-for-SMEs/COVID-19-supports/
Finally, it is important that all businesses check https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/c36c85-covid-19-coronavirus/ for the latest information, public health advice and guidelines from Government in relation to Covid-19.
