One disappointment for many in the services industry was Government’s decision not to keep the Vat rate at 9%, which will return to its pre-pandemic rate of 13.5% in Spring 2023

Dr Tony Holohan said at a press briefing that even if different sectors of the economy propose their own health and safety advice, this would not change the public health recommendations that the National Public Health Emergency Team make.

Grappling with how to reopen safely, Cork salons call for clearer guidelines, says Áine Kenny