Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his comments. Naturally, all areas for controlling the virus and its spread are being observed and dealt with by the Department of Health and all other Departments, in conjunction with NPHET. All of the evidence is being considered and it all indicates that the best way of stopping the virus is to limit and reduce our contacts, be that in a social, shopping or working context. We are trying, through these restrictions, to reduce the movements of and connections made by people. It goes against the grain for all of us living in Ireland because we like connecting, meeting people, doing our shopping, going to work and all of that. The advice we have received is to limit these activities under these restrictions. That is why we are asking that non-essential retail is conducted in other ways that do not involve encouraging people to leave their homes to make a purchase. We will work with all sectors to ensure that all of those products are available and can be sourced. Many of the companies involved in the growing of Christmas trees or producing wreaths or other items over the last year have put their plans in place. They will be in a position to trade and reach their customers. This will be facilitated and will happen in the weeks ahead.

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