Face coverings now mandatory in various businesses in Ireland

It is now mandatory to wear a face covering in shops, hairdressers and other indoor settings in Ireland. The measure was agreed by the Government a number of weeks ago, and came into effect from Monday, 10 August.

Staff in these premises must also wear face coverings, unless a partition or a two-metre distance is in place between customers and workers. 

People who do not wear a face covering, or anyone who ignores a request to wear one, can face a fine of up to €2,500 and/or up to six months imprisonment. The legislation will remain in place until 5 October. 

“We know that most people are already wearing face coverings and we hope to see even greater uptake,” said Dr Ronan Glynn, the acting chief medical officer. “Time and again people have shown their willingness to follow public health guidance in the interest of protecting each other from this disease. Wearing a face covering is just one more way in which people can demonstrate their solidarity with one another as we seek to suppress the spread of Covid-19.”

Habic has reminded its members that masks offer the best protection, and has strongly urged all hair and beauty industry businesses to wear them where possible.

“Mask are now mandatory in hair salons, barbers and nail bars,” it said. “In regards to beauty salons or spas, they are not listed on the specified list of premises where mask wearing is mandatory. It’s not mandatory in these premises, as a large number of treatments – for example, facials – require the removal of a face mask.

“However, Habic strongly recommends the wearing of face coverings in all settings where it is reasonably practicable to wear one, for example lash or brow treatments. Please be reminded that a visor is not a substitute for a mask.”