Office Politics

 Thousands going back to the workplace after 18 mths. Varadkar wants remote option to be permanent

- Sally Harding

Thousands of people go back to the office for the first time in over 18 months today as the Government said it wants remote working to become “a permanent fixture”.

The latest easing of restrictions comes as 90% of Irish people aged over 16 have now been fully vaccinated.

Tanaiste Leo Varadkar said: “Tomorrow is a big day for thousands of businesses who are opening their doors for the first time since the pandemic and thousands of more people getting back to work.

“It has been an incredibly challenging 18 months for those running indoor activities. Business owners have had to make huge changes to their business, from moving outdoors to moving online.

“Your efforts to date have doubtless saved lives.

“Now, thanks to the success of the vaccination programme, we are in a position to ease restrictions further and allow these indoor activities take place, including indoor exercise classes, bands, bowling alleys, amusement arcades, chess, bridge and other indoor activities. All restrictions on outdoor group activities will be removed.