The Government has thankfully introduced a swathe of new social restrictions as the response to the Covid-19 outbreak is set to ramp up considerably. The restrictions will be in place until at least Sunday, April 19, with gardaí expected to increase their interventions in cases where groups of people or venues are not complying with the restrictions.
The following is an indicative list of what are considered essential retail outlets:
Retail and wholesale sale of food, beverages and newspapers in non-specialised and specialised stor
Retail sale of household consumer products necessary to maintain the safety and sanitation of residences and businesses.
Pharmacies/chemists and retailers providing pharmaceuticals, pharmaceutical or dispensing services.
Opticians/optometrists
Retail sale of selling medical and orthopaedic goods in specialised stores
Fuel stations and heating fuel providers
Retailers involved in the repair of motor vehicles, motorcycles and bicycle repair and related facilities (for example, tyre sales and repairs)
Retail sale of essential items for the health and welfare of animals, including animal feed and medicines, animal food, pet food and animal supplies including bedding.
Laundries and dry cleaners.
Banks, post offices and credit unions.
Retail sale of safety supply stores (for example, work clothes, Personal Protective Equipment)
Hardware stores, builders’ merchants and stores that provide hardware products necessary for home and business maintenance, sanitation and farm equipment, supplies and tools essential for gardening/farming/agriculture
Retail sale of office products and services for individuals working from home and for businesses.
Retailers providing electrical, IT and phone sales, repair and maintenance services for home.
The above outlets must implement the following social distancing measures:
Ensure adequate distancing between customers and retail assistants in line with public health guidelines.
Only let people into the store in small groups and ensure spaces are not crowded.
Manage queues inside and outside the door.
Consider designating certain times of the day to facilitate vulnerable groups.
Provide online services where possible and appropriate to minimise footfall.
Offer contactless payment where possible.