Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

First, I welcome the plan issued by the Minister and the Government to reopen our economy in a sustainable manner, as well as the supports the Minister recently issued on foot of the Cabinet meeting. The warehousing of tax liabilities and the supports through the local enterprise offices are very welcome, as they are important for the smaller businesses which make up a large proportion of our economy. In her opening statement, the Minister mentioned that it was not necessary for businesses to receive official authorisation to reopen. It is important that we clarify that. Hoteliers, for example, are concerned about family events and weddings. Is it the case that if they can satisfactorily implement social distancing requirements and put those safeguards in place, they can base their capacity on that? I would also be grateful for more clarity on hair salons and barbers, though the plan is very detailed. The credit scheme and other supports are welcome as it is important that we support businesses. The next Government will have a huge task in avoiding a two-speed recovery and ensuring our regional areas get key supports and interventions. I have received many queries regarding women on maternity leave who have missed the wage subsidy scheme but I appreciate that may require primary legislation and a new Government may be needed to implement some of those changes. To provide support for 1 million people in our Statevis-à-visthe Covid payment and the wage subsidy scheme in such a short timeframe is a massive achievement by the Government.

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