Dear Chamber Member,
This week’s announcement by Government of a plan for the next and final phase of the reopening of our communities and economy is a milestone in our response to COVID-19. It has been an extremely challenging 18+ months and in particular for those businesses and the employees who have been unable to trade in any meaningful way and have continued to be affected by the restrictions. The commitment and resilience shown across the business community through this pandemic must be commended.
The phased easing of restrictions for events, entertainment and mass gatherings is a welcome move for the industry. Worth an estimate €3.5bn to the Irish economy each year, and employing some 35,000 people, the industry impacts every community in Ireland and every effort must be made to support its recovery.
The guidance on the return of employees to the office environment is very welcome. Though An Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD did remark that the pandemic is not over, that great uncertainties still remain, and as such, business owners must take all reasonable steps in prioritising the safety of staff and customers in the workplace, and to be proactive in their risk mitigation measures as premises reopen and employees return to the workplace.
The commitment by Government that the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS), which will continue to be made available to businesses until the end of the year is a welcome step for all industries that have been subject to extended restrictions will help businesses as they continue to assess their trading health in the months ahead. However, it is clear that the full economic recovery will extend beyond the end of 2022. We will continue to represent the interests of our business community in Cork, and please get in touch (via email HERE or on 087 947 1858) if you wish to discuss the challenges facing your business and industry. The plan published by Government can be viewed <HERE>.
Warm regards,
Conor Healy
CEO
