What the weekend’s government announcement means for hospitality

A new set of restrictions were introduced on Friday, with a particular focus on the hospitality sector.

With rising Covid-19 cases, and the run up to Christmas, government announced some more restrictions on Friday 3rd December. NPHET made recommendations to government on the best practices in the lead up to Christmas, and many of these rules were taken on board. One such guideline was that indoor events should only run at 50% capacity.

The New Restrictions

Nightclubs will close from tomorrow, 7th December, until the 9th January, where they will reassess depending on cases and hospitalisations. Bars and restaurants will remain open, but bar service will no longer run, and tables can only seat a maximum of six people. People will not be able to book multiple tables beside one another, and there is to be no table mingling. The closing time will stay at midnight. Indoor events such as gigs, theatre shows, and sports events will run at 50% capacity. This rule does not apply to religious services such as weddings and funerals. Masks must be worn at all times unless eating or drinking. The Covid Pass will now be required in hotel bars and restaurants, as well as gyms and leisure centres. Only those fully vaccinated, or recovered from Covid-19 in the last six months will be allowed entry into these venues. Visits to private homes should be limited to a max of four households, including the resident of the house. RTÉ News reported that the Taoiseach said: "If Omicron takes hold and if it is more transmissible, the potential for a very serious crisis is obvious" and that the mingling of households could help the spread of this variant. He did however acknowledge the need for flexibility on this matter. The PUP will reopen applications for those in need, particularly those who work in hospitality. Lastly, with regards to travel, from Sunday 5th December, all those entering Ireland will need a negative PCR or antigen test, regardless of vaccination status. Header image via Shutterstock  READ ON: Have you checked out this Kilkenny Christmas Market yet?