Sinn Féin representative for Kerry, Pa Daly TD has called for a co-ordinated effort to plan for reopening society and business in Kerry.
“This past year has placed people under immense stress, emotionally, physically and financially,” said Teachta Daly.
“We have some way to go yet, and we will be guided by NPHET, however people need to hear that there is a plan to re-open, and that the ways in which we can re-open are being thought about now.
Devastation in Kerry
“Kerry has been devastated by the loss of tourism, and far too many businesses and employees have been left out in the cold as regards government supports.
“It is increasingly clear that when we do re-open, it will look different and we need to consider a plan that enables businesses to operate in an outdoor setting as much as possible. This could reconfigure our town centres to a degree in terms of parking, outdoor dining, and pedestrian and road traffic.
All Eyes on April 5th
“With less than four weeks to go until April 5th, now is the time for national and local government to begin active discussions with representative bodies on a plan for this .
“Lack of communication and clarity has been a consistent theme since the pandemic started. Effective medium term planning is essential rather than the firefighting we have seen.
“People have been exceptionally patient and put their livelihoods on the line as well as their health in the case of all our front-line workers.
Another Shortened Season
“We owe people details that assure them there is a plan to re-open and to support businesses in creative ways to allow the hospitality sector to operate as successfully as possible this summer in what will likely be a shortened season.
“This may be the last defence they have to remain in business beyond 2021.
Relaxation in Level 5
“People need to hear some assurances, on or before April 5th, that there can be some reward or relaxation in Level 5 measures, barring a spike in numbers in the interim.
“In particular, I am hearing from people who want government to look at those activities which are outdoor and which have been proven in other lock-downs to have not resulted in Covid-19 outbreaks.”
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