Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for raising those issues. The protocol we launched on Saturday is a very good one. It provides a lot of information on how businesses can prepare to get back to work. They need to look at the things they have to do. For example, each workplace will appoint one lead worker representative. These representatives will be able to work with employers to ensure Covid-19 measures are in place. There is a lot of very simple stuff in it about washing hands, good coughing and sneezing etiquette and staying apart. Deputy Murphy mentioned distance. The protocol provides that "In settings where 2 metre worker separation cannot be ensured by organisational means, alternative protective measures should be put in place". For example, businesses may have to "Install physical barriers, such as clear plastic sneeze guards between workers"; "Maintain at least a distance of 1 metre or as much distance as is reasonably practicable"; and "Minimise any direct worker contact and provide hand washing facilities, and other hand hygiene aids, such as hand sanitisers, wipes etc. that are readily accessible".

There are a lot of provisions in the protocol. I am telling businesses to get the protocol and read it. Managers should look at it to find out they need to do in their own specific businesses. They will get a lot of information there. If they have any doubts, they can ring the HSA, officials from which will be happy to talk to them and provide guidance. I am hearing a lot about implementation, the need to enforce the law and so on. A lot of employers out there want to do the right thing and make sure they have the right procedures in place to protect their workers.

The wage subsidy scheme is particularly good. As workers return to the workplace, the employer will get that subsidy. The Deputy is right that it is great that we have it now for this crisis. It will be paid until 16 June. If one is an early mover and gets back fairly early, one will get the benefit of having up to 85% of one's wages paid to the employer. That in itself is a cash injection. I know the Deputy is anxious to get in.

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