An updated look on the impact of the Coronavirus on the local business of New Ross
Across the country supply chains are being disrupted, public events like the St. Patricks Day Parade are being cancelled and in the middle of it all, local businesses are dealing with frightened employees, hesitant customers and a very uncertain future thanks to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Small businesses in New Ross say “It hasn’t impacted us, yet” but overall, 24 cases of the virus have now been confirmed in the Republic of Ireland and more than 1,000 people have been tested for Coronavirus.
Customer behavior can become very erratic during a pandemic and while the town hasn’t reported that level of fear, the varying emotions about the virus do seem present in the town, some businesses reported that their day to day sales were down but on the other hand some have had a spike in certain items (toilet roll being one!) that have gone through the roof.
Hanly’s Pharmacy on South Street reported, “we just got in a supply of sanitizer last Saturday and by 12pm it was gone, I would say every second customer that came in this morning was looking for hand sanitizer” while proceeding to explain (On precautions) “We’re using the hand sanitizers every 20 minutes, keeping track of our own health, wearing gloves when handling prescriptions and if someone comes in with symptoms, keeping a distance”
Sean Sutton from the Bakehouse expressed his concerns about “the older crowd and the hospitals, that they can’t cope” before being fearful of how it could impact his day to day business “Suppose our baker gets it, would we just (have to) close up ? Would there even be anyone to buy bread ? ”
Business owners are encouraged to be proactive and do what they need to do to keep their doors open…They’re our friends and neighbours, and it’s important to try to help them confront the economic challenges that are likely to come from a COVID-19 outbreak.
Minister Humphreys this evening announced supports for businesses impacted by COVID-19
Minister Humphreys said, “I know that this is a worrying time for businesses and I want to assure them that my Department and agencies are working on their behalf to develop and deliver a range of supports to help them through this rapidly evolving situation.”
The Minister continued, “I am hearing from many businesses that they are very concerned about their cashflow in the coming weeks. I want to reassure them that there are a number of schemes that can help them meet their short-term working capital and liquidity needs.”
FULL DETAILS ON THE SUPPORT HERE
Local businesses are a crucial part of our town’s economy, and the after effects could cause more damage than the virus itself. Many have suggested the council will have to take a look at the rates and parking situation at least in the short-term, and see if they can provide a solution if the situation declines.
While there’s been plenty of misinformation and confusion surrounding the coronavirus, there’s one thing that people can agree on that at this moment we are entering a difficult, unprecedented situation, public fear is spreading, early signs of economic distress and disruption are beginning to surface…. but we will continue to try to work with our extraordinary community to get through this together.
Keep up to Date with the latest on our COVID-19 Notice Timeline