Employers body Ibec has said that easing back on the phased return to the office is sensible but that businesses need to remain open so people can earn a living.
The director of Employer Relations at Ibec said the high rates of Covid-19 infection is an issue that is larger than the workplace and that employers support the Government in seeking to reduce the spread of infection.
Maeve McElwee said the issue is about maintaining some level of balance between keeping society open and protecting public health.
She said now that all business areas have re-opened they should remain open, adding that if they can operate remotely, they should do so.