28th February 2022
Speaking about the implications of the lifting of restrictions for workers and businesses today, the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar TD said:
"Today marks another milestone in our pathway out of the pandemic. It's especially significant for anyone working in a customer facing role. It’s a big day for many businesses and workers as economic life begins to return to normal’’
"There is now no longer any requirement to wear a mask in a retail setting. This goes for customers and staff.
“This change is made on the advice of NPHET and based on current epidemiological evidence.
“Staff and customers who want to continue to wear a mask, should of course continue to do so. We know that many people will be nervous about this latest step in our journey with Covid, especially the medically vulnerable.
"In hospitality, the requirement for customers was already removed but from today, those working in our restaurants and cafes will no longer have to wear a mask.
“Good hygiene and health & safety practices should continue. These include regular handwashing, good ventilation, regular cleaning and working from home if you have symptoms. These will help to arrest the spread of COVID as well as other viruses and bacteria.
"For those commuting today, you are not legally required to wear a mask on public transport anymore, however we are still recommending that you do.
"The rules on close contacts are also changing today. If you have no symptoms, you do not need to test or isolate and can continue on your business and go to work as normal. This is the case regardless of your vaccination status. The only exception is for healthcare workers who have a confirmed case in their home, they will need to take antigen tests and follow different guidance.
"Workers with symptoms and confirmed positive cases, whether by antigen or PCR test, should still isolate immediately and depending on which category they fall into, get tested. Further guidance on this can be found on the HSE website.
"The best of luck to all business owners and their staff today. It's another important step in our fight against this virus."
ENDS
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