Press release
Minister English welcomes opening of all remaining retail outlets
From Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment
Published on
Last updated on
The Minister for Business, Employment and Retail, Damien English TD, has paid tribute to the resilience and patience of business owners and workers in the Irish retail sector as all remaining outlets open their doors for their customers today after a successful week of click and collect and shopping by appointment.
The reopening is part of the next phase of the government’s COVID-19 Resilience and Recovery: The Path Ahead.
The Minister said:
"I am delighted that all retail outlets can open for business from today. It has been a long road and I want to thank those in the sector who have worked closely with myself and the government over the last few months to make this day possible. I urge everyone to shop local and to support their local retailers in the coming days and months ahead.
"I am mindful that safe shopping is as important as ever and shoppers need to adhere to public health guidelines; to wear a mask in store and in busy outdoor areas for your safety and for that of other shoppers and staff, even if you have been vaccinated. Remember also to keep a two metre distance from others and to use hand sanitisers on entering and leaving any shop."
Minister English added:
"I am sure that the public are keen to support our retailers as they begin to trade again after a really tough few months. We must remain vigilant in the fight against COVID-19. Public health and safety must always be paramount but with caution and by working together we can once again enjoy the old normality."
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has worked closely with retailers during the pandemic and as shops reopen messaging on safe shopping has been shared with retailers (Shop Safely resources) and a government campaign also will remind people of the need to:
Minister English concluded:
"While the reopening of retail is a very positive development, I am also very aware of other businesses, particularly indoor ones such as restaurants, pubs, indoor family entertainment centres such as play centres and bowling alleys, that cannot open yet. But I think if we all play our part and behave responsibly, we will ensure that society can open in full, and most importantly safely, before too long."
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE) plays a key role in implementing the government’s policies of stimulating the productive capacity of the economy and creating an environment which supports job creation and maintenance. The department has lead responsibility for Irish policy on global trade and inward investment and a remit to promote fair competition in the marketplace, protect consumers and safeguard workers.
For further information please contact Press Office, D/Enterprise, Trade and Employment, press.office@enterprise.gov.ie or (01) 631-2200.
If you no longer wish to receive emails from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment Press Office, please notify us by email to press.office@enterprise.gov.ie
A comprehensive listing of supports, grants, and advice available to businesses affected by COVID-19 is available at enterprise.gov.ie/coronavirus.
The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has established a Business Support Call Centre for information on the business supports available to businesses and enterprises affected by COVID-19.
It can be reached at infobusinesssupport@enterprise.gov.ie or (01) 631 2002.