First published on Friday, Apr 30, 2021
Last updated on Tuesday, Dec 08, 2020
The government has confirmed its approach for easing restrictions over the Christmas period. Business and society have now moved to Level 3 on the ‘Living with COVID-19 Plan’ with a number of special measures in place.
Let’s take look at how the new measures impact you and your business…
Who can open and when?
From 1st December 2020, the following businesses can reopen:
- Retail and personal services
- Gyms, leisure centres and swimming pools (for individual use only)
- Hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs (service limited to residents only)
- Cinemas, museums, galleries, and libraries
From 4th December 2020, the following rules apply for hospitality:
- Restaurants and pubs operating as restaurants can open for indoor dining, as long as they serve substantial meals. Meals must be prepared on-site.
- Wet pubs remain limited to takeaways only.
What else was announced?
Face mask rules
The government has now asked people to wear face masks in all crowded workplaces, which means this could be something you have to enforce in your business.
Working from home advice stays the same
The government has said that employees who can work from home should continue to do so. Plus, with public transport cut to 50% capacity, it could be tougher for your employees to commute into work now.
Official guidance warns that people should only leave their county for work, education or other essential purposes.
Health & safety obligations
It’s still your responsibility to make sure your workplace is safe for both your staff and anyone who uses your premises.
To make sure you’re following all of the official government guidelines, check out the recent updates to the Work Safely Protocol. You can find the full guidance on the gov.ie website.
Got a question of your own?
Whether you want advice on reopening your business or need help with another complex HR issue, our legal experts are here to help.
In one quick call, you can get confidential legal advice that helps you avoid hefty legal mistakes and puts your mind at ease. Ring us now on 1800 279 841.