Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

760. To ask the Minister for Health the current advice regarding meetings (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14161/20]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Guidelines in relation to the meetings of Local Authorities as described in the Deputy’s question are not matters within the remit of my Department. Public health advice in operation at a point in time is available on the Government website at

I would like to draw the Deputy's attention to the “Return to Work Safely Protocol - COVID-19 Specific National Protocol for Employers and Workers” which was published on 9 May, 2020. It provides clear guidance to employers and to workers on the measures that must be taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace. The Protocol was developed through the cooperation of the Health and Safety Authority, the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation, the HSE and my Department. The Protocol is mandatory, and it applies to all workplaces right across the economy. Specific sectors may need to introduce additional safeguards, but this document sets the standard set of measures to provide protection against the threat of COVID-19.

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is tasked with providing advice and support to employers and employees on what and how COVID-19 measures are applied in the workplace. If you would like any further guidance on the Protocol, the HSA Helpline can be contacted at 1890 289 389 or wcu@hsa.ie.