Employers may be liable for Covid outbreaks from 'unofficial' Christmas staff parties

Employers could be liable if the Christmas event has been organised during office hours or was publicised in the office by a social committee

Pedestrians on Grafton Street in Dublin as Ireland takes another step towards normality with all non-essential retail being allowed to resume. Picture: PA

Employers could be liable for outbreaks of Covid-19 at Christmas "unofficial" parties even if they weren't fully aware of the festive events organised by their own staff, a leading Irish employment lawyer has warned. 

Patrick Walshe, partner at law firm Philip Lee, said the liability risks are particularly acute this Christmas because of the many grey areas that have risen as some Covid restrictions for hospitality have been re-imposed but most remain in place.