As Covid-19 cases rise many business are concerned if whether or not they will be open in time for Christmas.

IBEC are now calling for an early exit from Level 5 for retail, hospitality and travel sectors.

The employers’ lobby group has asked Taoiseach Micheál Martin for a gradual easing of restrictions on businesses from next week, leading to a return to Level 2 by the middle of December.

Today on The Last Word Matt Cooper spoke to:

Danny McCoy, CEO of IBEC.

And Dr Thomas Ryan, Associate Professor in the School of Biochemistry and Immunology.

Catch the full chat by hitting the play button below.