Calls are being made in Clare for the two-metre social distancing rule to be examined, amid concerns about its impact on business.
Its one of a number of issues to be discussed this afternoon, when the Chief Medical Officer will meet with Cabinet members.
The two-metre social distancing rule is one of the matters expected to top the agenda, when Dr Tony Holohan briefs Cabinet Ministers this afternoon.
While Ireland has mandated a two-metre distancing rule, guidance from the World Health Organisation has recommended a one-metre gap as a minimum, but ideally two metres.
Ryanair boss, Michael O’Leary’s says the Government’s restrictions are ‘overly conservative’.
A number of European countries have already reduced social distancing to 1 metre,m or 1.5 metres.
Clare’s Independent TD Michael McNamara, who’s Chair of the Oireachtas Covid-19 Committee, says they intend to scrutinise the advice given here.
The Clare Chair of the Vintners Federation of Ireland is adamant that the 2m social distancing guideline must be reduced if pubs are to have any hope of surviving.
A new report from the Licensed Vintners Association and the VFI has revealed that capacity in some pubs may drop by 87% if the rules are unchanged.
Darragh McAllister, who also owns Lucas’ Bar in Ennis, says no businesses can be expected to reopen under the current guidelines.
Michael Glynn, Clare FM, first for local news.
