Kildare Businesses Urged To Deliver Safe Return To Workplace

Saturday, 22 January 2022 12:19

By Ross Lindsay

County Kildare Chamber welcomes easing of Covid 19 restrictions.

Business groups, the hospitality sector and publicans are among those who have welcomed the easing of Covid 19 restrictions.

Social distancing requirements ended this morning.

Bars and restaurants can return to normal trading hours and nightclubs which have a special exemption order to open late, can do so.

County Kildare Chamber says the news will come as a relief to many business owners across the county.

Chamber Chief Executive Allan Shine says “the decision by Government today will come as a relief to the many business owners in Kildare and across Ireland who have played a crucial role in navigating the threat posed by Covid-19. Their businesses, which are hugely important to the people and strength of our local economies, now have a chance to make their full contribution to their communities and the staff they employ.

As we manage a return to the workplace, it is also important that businesses engage with employees to deliver a safe and fair return that takes account of changes that have taken place in the last two years. For many, flexible and remote working has been a consequence of the pandemic but every effort should be made to retain the benefits it has provided to employees and the economy. The long-term benefits of doing so will be happier staff, a more inclusive labour force and higher levels of productivity."

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar doesn't think there will be many disputes from people who'd rather not go back.