DublinTown is concerned by the renewed restrictions announced by the Government this evening

DublinTown is concerned by the renewed restrictions announced by the Government this evening 18th August 2020.  It is believed that these additional restrictions could give rise to further business closures in the city in the coming weeks.

Having regard to the potential consequences, the city’s business community would like to understand the rational for some of the measures introduced.  Prior to Covid two-thirds of people travelling to the city to shop or socialise used public transport to do so.  The public are now being advised not to use public transport, implying a direct link between public transport and public health.  City footfall is struggling and this announcement is likely to depress it further.  The city’s business community would like to know to what extent has a link between public transport use and the spread of the virus been established, particularly given the widespread compliance with the wearing of face masks on public transport.

The return of office workers in Dublin city is of vital importance to the city centre economy.  Office workers are the bedrock of custom for retail and hospitality businesses.  These workers are the ones who buy coffees and lunches, shop on their breaks,  and engage with the city’s hair and beauty offering.

Without the return of office workers, and with the public being discouraged from using public transport, recovery from the Covid19 lockdown will be made even more challenging for businesses, across all consumer facing sectors. Many businesses in Dublin city are considering permanent closure.  For some this decision will be made in September, for others it will be deferred to December.  The imposition of further restrictions and enhanced uncertainty regarding the future may hasten this decision.