[ad_1]
The “intense discussions” on how the country will get out of the Level 5 restrictions are “necessary” and are underway, the finance minister said, describing it as a “major decision.”
Paschal Donohoe said the government is listening to evaluations from NPHET, adding that it is important to recognize that the country is making progress in the fight against the virus.
“If you look at all the indicators we were in a few weeks ago, we are in a better place, but not as good as we would like to be,” Donohoe said.
The minister said that the number of deaths from Covid-19 and those in ICU with the virus will also be considered when the Government makes its decision.
He said people should look beyond Christmas and realize that the medium-term goal is to reduce the spread of the disease to the lowest possible level.
While acknowledging that Christmas is “so important” from a family and wellness perspective, he said that from an economic standpoint, business owners say they want certainty beyond December 25.
He said a collective decision must be made to protect people’s health and well-being and what is right for the economy beyond Christmas.
Reflecting on the people and companies that are being affected by Covid-19, he said that they are being supported by the wage subsidy scheme, financial support for companies that are closed and a lower VAT rate.
He said that these measures are still in force to deal with the uncertainty facing the country.
[ad_2]