DublinTown, the city centre business group for the capital has warned about the impact the new covid-19 restrictions will have on Dublin.
They expressed their concerns over the new announcements especially calls to avoid public transport where possible.
The group, which represents 2,500 businesses, said that before the outbreak, 66% of people travelling to the city for shopping, work or to socialise were using public transport.
DublinTown are worried that the new regulations will make people fear that there is a direct link between public transport and coronavirus.
They said: "The city's business community would like to know to what extent has a link between public transport use and the spread of the virus been established, particularly given the widespread compliance with the wearing of face masks on public transport."
"Office workers are the bedrock of custom for retail and hospitality businesses. These workers are the ones who buy coffees and lunches, shop on their breaks and engage with the city's hair and beauty offerings.
Richard Guiney CEO of DublinTown added: "Without the return of office workers, and with the public being discouraged from using public transport, recovery from the Covid-19 lockdown will be made even more challenging for businesses, across all consumer facing sectors.
"Many businesses in Dublin city are considering permanent closure. For some this decision will be made in September, for others it will be deferred to December.
"The imposition of further restrictions and enhanced uncertainty regarding the future may hasten this decision."
