Response to latest Covid health guidelines

The latest CEO Update to Ibec membership from Danny McCoy

Dear member, 

Today’s announcement from Government on the updated public health measures means that many challenges will remain for business, but it is important to acknowledge several positive developments emerged too. 

This afternoon’s meeting of the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF) stakeholder group on Work Safely Protocol provided an important opportunity for Ibec to achieve greater clarity on several provisions detailed in today’s health measures. Work is ongoing to update the guidance for businesses and we expect to see that completed and available by Thursday this week. One key point of note is that the Work Safely Protocol will continue in force and therefore the 2-meter distancing rules are to remain in place with consequences for capacity utilisation.

The commitment that the return to workplaces can proceed is to be welcomed. It is a reflection of the risk reduction that the vaccine programme is delivering and means that the momentum of the past number of months is not lost. Furthermore, it is encouraging to note that today’s updated health measures allow for the further reopening of many businesses, including some for the first time in 21 months.

It remains the case that many sectors will continue to face difficult trading challenges in the weeks and months ahead as the remaining restrictions are deployed. While the health consequences are an important dimension, so too are the livelihoods of the staff of these businesses, and such businesses must continue to be provided with the necessary financial supports to ensure that they remain viable. 

I will notify you of further updates as we get them. In the meantime, if you have any queries, please let me know. It is always good to hear from you. 

Regards, 

Danny McCoy
CEO
Ibec