The hospitality sector opened back up over the weekend.
Retailers and restaurants are struggling to find staff to work over Christmas.
Some have suffered staff shortages as a result of workers moving to more secure jobs in supermarkets and pharmacies.
Other business owners say workers are reluctant to come off the Pandemic Unemployment Payment for the promise of just a few weeks work.
Dara Cruise - manager at the Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise - says people in the industry have had to look elsewhere for regular work:
The Laois hotelier says they'll have to consider taking deposits if people continue not showing up for bookings.
Mr. Cruise was impressed with the high levels of compliance with covid guidelines.
But he can understand the frustration at people not showing up for their bookings at such a critical point for the industry:
Ploughing 2026 Day Two: As It Happened
There Are Very Strict Rules When It Comes To International Sport - Tanaiste
Terminating A Pregnancy Is Not An Easy Or Quick Decision - Sorca Clarke
Three Day Abortion Waiting Period Under Scrutiny In Leinster House
An Post Opens Recruitment For 1,600 Christmas Workers
Initiative Tackling Drug Related Intimidation Gets Funding Boost
Westmeath GAA Star Raises Concerns Over Future Of Irish Farming
Westmeath Market House Redevelopment Could Begin Construction By December