Taoiseach says July 20 reopening of all pubs could be delayed

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has stated that the planned reopening of all pubs on July 20 could be delayed if rules are not adhered to.

Over the weekend, videos circulated which depicted crowds gathering in Dublin city centre and newly-appointed Taoiseach Micheál Martin told Cork’s 96FM this morning that “People need to behave. There is an obligation on everybody to behave. Personal responsibility matters here.”

Pubs which serve food have been permitted to open since last Monday but those which don’t provide an eating option are instructed to remain closed until July 20. However, Martin add that “this could be delayed” and that he is “very worried” about the scenes he saw over the weekend.

Earlier today, Labour councillor Joanna Tuffy called for the introduction of social distancing wardens, with powers to disperse crowds if necessary. The calls came after a number of Dublin pubs condemned the behaviour of the public on Saturday, including 57 The Headline and the Stag’s Head.

A full breakdown of guidelines for pubs during phase 3 of the lifting of lockdown restrictions can be found here.

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