Grocery supply chains are well stocked and there is ample supply to meet demand, Minister Heather Humphreys has said following a meeting with retailers about contingency plans for coronavirus.

The Minister met with retail representative bodies, large grocery retailers and retail distributors at the Department’s offices on Thursday.

“I am greatly encouraged by the preparations that retailers and suppliers are making to ensure that consumers have access to the range of grocery goods that they need.

Grocery supply chains are well stocked and there is ample supply to meet demand

“I am also assured that grocery supply chains are well stocked and there is ample supply to meet demand.

“Retailers and their suppliers are working on contingency plans and are following the public health advice provided by Government on a daily basis, so that health is prioritised for employees and consumers, and food supply chains can continue to function with minimal disruption,” Minister Humphreys said.

Containment phase

The Minister said Ireland is currently in a containment phase, but said her focus and that of her Department and agencies is on maintaining continuity of business for whatever event may unfold.

“In that light, we need to ensure that we are all collectively preparing across the full range of potential scenarios.

“The engagement that I have had today with the grocery retailers and suppliers and retail representative bodies has been constructive and informative, and we will continue to engage over the coming days and weeks,” she said.

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