Concerns of dry cleaners highlighted after two businesses in Mayo close down

A Mayo TD has highlighted concerns of those operating dry cleaners and launderettes - and the fact there are no specific guidelines, supports or personal protective equipment, PPE, provided to the industry.

Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh said the government actually advised many members of the public not to use the services of dry cleaners and launderettes.

She elaborated: "The government did not consult or engage with the industry on the guidelines, nor has it responded to the numerous queries and concerns raised by the industry.

"That is bizarre, particularly when one considers that the dry cleaning industry is a service regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency.

"Dry cleaners and launderettes are specialists at cleaning the general public's laundry and the task is deemed high risk, especially during a pandemic.

"Dry cleaners and launderettes provide essential services to various sectors, including hospitality, hair, beauty and fashion, as well as schools and sports clubs, and other businesses that were closed during the lockdown.

"They are an essential part of the supply chain for these businesses. The pandemic has caused an estimated 50% to 80% loss of turnover to many dry cleaners and launderettes, some of which have had to close.

"In the past week alone, two such businesses have closed in Mayo.

"Dry cleaners and launderettes need to be aligned to the hospitality sector and should be included in any VAT breaks or rescue packages offered to that sector because dry cleaners and laundry staff are highly skilled and many of them have taken years to upskill and train.

"The impact of losing a staff member or key worker could be the difference between a business staying open or closing.

"The wage subsidy scheme needs to be in place for a minimum of one year and schemes and grants must be in place to take on new staff should others become sick because they are in a high-risk category.

"Those grants and supports should be provided for upskilling and PPE, especially considering the job in question.

"The industry now requests that all authorities and governing bodies consult and engage with it immediately on guidelines and supports.

"I ask the government to look at this issue and see how these businesses can be looked after because I do not want towns like mine to be left without dry cleaners and launderettes. They are essential services."