Level 3: ‘Immensely challenging’

The business community “undoubtedly” needs the backing of extended government supports, Cork Chamber said this week as the country joined Dublin and Donegal in Level 3 restrictions.

Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, said that while it was not a surprising move, it was nonetheless going to be challenging for business and society to move to Level 3 restrictions.

He said that the impact of these tighter restrictions will be “immensely challenging” for those operating in food and beverage, hospitality or culture-based venues. “Our economy and business community are in a highly vulnerable position now. A real push is now needed from all of society, to return to Level 2, and ensure we can resume meaningful economic activity for retail and hospitality before Christmas,” he said.

Mr Healy added: “Many businesses have embraced work-from-home for their teams, and we urge those who can, to return to, or continue with this unless absolutely necessary. The business community undoubtedly needs the backing of extended Government supports but critically, we as a community, all need to work together again. “Earlier this year we demonstrated our ability to take responsibility for restricting our movements and we must dig deep again to allow for the easing of these restrictions on our community and economy.”

He described SMEs and independent operators as the “very fabric of our towns, communities and cities” while adding that they are among the worst affected and most at risk. “These businesses will once again be faced with incredibly tough financial, operational and HR decisions. In this time of extraordinary uncertainty, Government must offer all assurances to afford businesses their best chance at forecasting the months ahead. It is without doubt now that the Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme end-date of March 2021 is untenable and will need to be extended with the effects of the current qualification criteria under review.”