Certainty on further reopening and a phased return to offices welcome

Ibec, the group that represents Irish business, has welcomed the clarity given by Government this evening on the timeline for a phased and safe return to offices. As has become apparent over the past number of months, full remote working has many associated disadvantages for both employers and employees, particularly around organisational connectivity and innovation. It is also a great relief to many in the Experience Economy that they can finally plan for full reopening of their businesses. Today’s Roadmap will add further momentum to what has already been a very strong economic recovery. 

Ibec CEO, Danny McCoy, said: “Most businesses have been planning for a phased and gradual return for colleagues for opportunity to meet, innovate, and collaborate in person. Government policy is now aligned with this business imperative and businesses have the autonomy to determine with their stakeholders not just the “what” and “how” to return to new patterns of activity but, also the “when” to do so.

“The next challenge is to address office logistics, social distancing, and other control measures, as well as consistency in managing close contacts. Ibec will be proposing solutions to these challenges over the coming days and looks forward to engaging with relevant stakeholders on them as part of the Work Safely Protocol.”