David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein)
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47. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of HSA inspections at bookmakers each month since February 2020; the number found to be non-compliant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1449/21]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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In determining their programme of work in relation to workplace inspections the Health and Safety Authority carries out an assessment exercise based on various criteria before identifying what sectors and workplaces are prioritised for inspection. A similar assessment is done regarding compliance with COVID-19 public health measures inspections. 

I have been informed by the Health and Safety Authority that since 1 March 2020 it undertook 8 inspections in bookmakers which addressed COVID-19. The Health and Safety Authority found that the level of compliance found within the bookmaking sector has been very good and this is in line with the generally high level of compliance with the Work Safely Protocol found across all sectors. 

The findings from the inspections addressing COVID-19 are as follows:

- 100% of workplaces had COVID-19 measures in place.

- 88% of workplaces had COVID-19 Response plans in place.

- 75% of workplaces had a Lead Worker Rep.

In addition to inspections, the Health and Safety Authority continues to provide advice and support to employers and employees on how best to implement COVID-19 measures in the workplace through its helpline and website. It has also developed checklists and templates for use by employers, workers and worker representatives, and further material is being developed. 

Any employee who has concerns about compliance with COVID-19 issues, or any other workplace health and safety issue, can contact the Health and Safety Authority Workplace Contact Unit (WCU) on a confidential basis at 1890 289 389 or by sending an email to wcu@hsa.ie. If following such a complaint, there are serious concerns about a particular workplace, the Health and Safety Authority, or another agency or tasked with inspecting workplace compliance with the Protocol, will follow-up as appropriate. 

I would add that under the current Level 5 restrictions, bookmakers are considered “Non-essential Retail” and are therefore closed.