Government Minister Admits Restrictions More Complicated Than They'd Like

Wednesday, 20 October 2021 09:35

Fáilte Ireland's expected to publish updated guidelines for the hospitality sector today.

Talks will take place today on new guidelines for the reopening of nightclubs and live venues this Friday.

There’s a lot of confusion about what is allowed and what enforcement measures will be needed.

Business owners are looking for urgent clarity ahead of the reopening in two days.

Fáilte Ireland's expected to publish its updated guidelines for the hospitality sector today.

Covid Certs will continue to be used to access indoor hospitality, while social distancing is also being kept.

The maximum number of people allowed at a table is 10 adults, and five children per booking.

Co-leader of the Social Democrats, Roisin Shortall, says proper regulation of covid vaccine certs will be crucial.

The government is admitting the further reopening of society is proving more complicated than they would like.

Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue admits the ‘finer details’ need to be worked through:

We're continuing a cautious easing of restrictions from Friday. Some need to remain as we protect the progress we have made and importantly protect our health and social care service. If we continue to adhere to the measures we know worked, we will make further progress. pic.twitter.com/KhbLJZDezH
— Stephen Donnelly (@DonnellyStephen) October 19, 2021

The continued ban on people sitting at bar counters is the biggest disappointment from yesterday's announcement, according to one midlands publican.

Pubs can return to normal trading hours from next Friday, but table service rules still apply.

John Lee from Joe Lee's Bar in Tullamore says they're used to the goalposts being moved - but he is skeptical about how the measures will be enforced: