Paul Murphy
Ceist:46. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will report on the new Work Safely Protocol; and his plans for updating the protocols. [53137/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraTuesday, 2 November 2021
Ceisteanna (46, 76)
Aodhán Ó Ríordáin
Ceist:76. Deputy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on whether the review of the Work Safety Protocol presented on 19 October 2021 is still valid in view of current situation with Covid-19; if a further review is being undertaken or scheduled to be presented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [53109/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 46 and 76 together.
On 19th October 2021, the Government, taking account of the latest developments with regards to the incidence and behaviour of COVID-19, and the progress in the roll out of vaccinations, announced further steps in reopening of society, to take effect from 22nd October 2021.
The announcement made clear that important and necessary Public Health guidance currently in effect will remain in place after 22nd October 2021. In parallel with the reopening, an updated Work Safely Protocol was published on the 22nd of October to reflect the latest Public Health advice and the Government decision.
The Work Safely Protocol continues to apply in full, setting out the minimum Public Health infection prevention and control measures required to be taken by employers and workers, in every place of work, to prevent and reduce the spread of COVID-19.
The updating of the Protocol followed discussions and agreement at the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF) oversight group, which is a forum for high-level dialogue between Government, Trade Union and Employer representatives, in addition, LEEF issued an updated guidance note to cover the period after 22nd October 2021.
As Public Health advice and interventions change due to new and emerging evidence and the lessons learnt from the implementation of Public Health interventions, employers and workers should ensure that they keep up to date with and follow the current Public Health advice available on HPSC/HSE website. The Work Safely Protocol will continue to be updated and revised as necessary to reflect Public Health advice and Government decisions.