Ireland’s lockdown war on the economy

When they were first introduced in the spring, lockdowns were meant to be a way of controlling the spread of Covid-19. But, in much the same way that viruses themselves sometimes do, they have mutated into something far more sinister and potentially far more dangerous – a way of waging war on every form of normal economic life.

Last week, the Welsh banned the sale of non-essential goods in the few shops that are allowed to remain open. Now the Irish have joined in. From last week, the country has introduced one of the strictest lockdowns in the world. Bars and restaurants are closed for all but takeaway service. People are only allowed to exercise up to three miles from their home. Offices will mostly be closed, and people will have to work from home where they can. And, just as in Wales, all non-essential items are banned from sale.