SIGN OF THE TIMES
SOCIAL DISTANCING SIGNAGE NOW THE NORM FOR GOREY BUSINESSES
AS the country moves into the next phase of Covid-19 restrictions and businesses slowly, and carefully, start to re-open, physical distancing signage has become the norm.
In Gorey, signs showing people what two metres looks like have been painted onto paths at eight locations around the town.
The two metre signs were completed by Wexford County Council and can be seen on footpaths at The Avenue, Esmonde Street, North Parade, Courtown Footpath and Gorey cinema, among others.
Businesses too have utilised a range of signs and mechanisms to help their customers to pull together while keeping apart.
Councillor Andrew Bolger is full of praise for local businessowners, who have made the necessary changes to allow them to trade safely.
Cllr Bolger has been visiting a number of businesses around the town, including the Cosy Cottage Café, Joannes, Farina at the Amber Springs, the Ashdown Park
Hotel, The Book Café, The Hungry Bear and Partridge’s Bistro, to check out what changes they’ve made, but also to shop local and support local outlets.
‘In any business where you have to physically enter the building, there are lines on the floor and constant reminders of social distancing in bright yellow and hand sanitiser is available.
‘If you’re in town you will notice lines spray painted on the ground for the queues to form, while others have opted for a drive up service to collect your meal or they will deliver. I asked the staff how were they adjusting and the answer across the board was largely the same; that they are happy to be back, are busy and have done some tweaking and made changes’.
Cllr Bolger said that he is conscious of the virus when out and about but that businesses are taking the necessary precautions to get through the current crisis.
‘It’s great to see our local business willing to make the changes necessary to overcome the challenges faced by Covid-19. I am hopeful that this will help them survive as a business. The staff have become the front line now and I definitely miss the social side to it, I can’t wait for that to come back, but you can still have a laugh and a quick chat with staff ’.
Cllr Bolger is reminding others of the importance of shopping local.
‘Gorey is a unique town, there are many fantastic places to eat, drink and have your coffee. Not only is it good for the local economy and all that it comes with it such as employment, there is pride in these local businesses.
‘You, as a customer, matter more to our local businesses. You can have confidence in knowing the people who make your food use local suppliers’.