Galway city would usually be hopping this time of year, packed full of race-goers, holidaymakers and locals all enjoying the nightlife and pub scene. Things aren’t quite the same this year though, with annual traditions put on hold amid ongoing Covid-19 precautions.
A prime example being the Galway Races which got underway on Monday afternoon. Vastly different to previous years, this year marks the 151st anniversary of the yearly event and one that people are unlikely to forget anytime soon given the fact that no fans and no bookies are allowed on site.
A defence against Covid-19, that has, naturally, had a big effect on local businesses – the majority of whom would consider Race Week to be one of the busiest weeks of the summer. Posting a photo of an eerily quiet Galway city online, one onlooker took to Twitter to share her thoughts – commenting on the apparent disconnect between government and reality.
“If anyone is in any doubt of the complete decimation of the hospitality sector, well here you are, this is Galway’s busiest street on Race Week. The disconnect of our Government to the reality of what is actually happening, well here you are…. pictures don’t lie!”
https://twitter.com/LoftusMajella/status/1287882649445400579
However, while many lamented the sight, they also agreed that, unfortunately, there are limited alternatives… at least few that would allow for adequate health and safety measures in the current climate.
Header image via Twitter/Majella Loftus
