Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 June 2020
806. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if contractors, installers, suppliers and service providers undertaking activities within SEAI funded works and funded administered schemes can return to work as part of phase 1 of the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business; if not, the phase under which they will be allowed to return to work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8484/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhile noting that the Government's Roadmap permits a phased return of outdoor workers in phase 1 (18 May 2020), the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has determined that grant-aided home upgrade works could not be undertaken in compliance with the guidelines. This determination was informed by the Government's Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business and the Return to Work Safely Protocol.
It is important to note that some of the schemes administered by the SEAI are designed to provide retrofits for households in energy poverty, many of whom are older people and/or have chronic respiratory conditions. It is also the case that while elements of individual house retrofits may be outdoors, such projects require workers gaining indoor access.
The situation is being reviewed by the SEAI in the context of guidelines for Phase 2.
