A Clare TD insists the Government can’t let businesses “go to the wall” if NPHET recommendations are accepted.
The Cabinet Sub-Committee on Covid-19 is holding an emergency meeting this afternoon to decide whether stricter restrictions should be imposed.
But Ministers are facing open revolt among the backbenches of Government parties.
Public health officials think restaurants and pubs should close at 5pm, in a bid to get ahead of the incoming wave of Omicron covid cases.
It’s also been recommended that cinemas, theatres and sporting events have a 5pm cut-off time and be restricted to 50 per cent capacity.
A full Cabinet meeting will take place this afternoon to decide whether or not to accept NPHET’s recommendations.
Clare’s Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe believes cabinet will go “wholeheartedly” with the recommendations, but he says supports for businesses must follow.
A group of Fianna Fáil Senators has opposed the recommendation, saying it’s unworkable and will encourage house parties.
Mountshannon Senator Timmy Dooley has tweeted to say the 5pm closing time should be ‘resisted’ by Government and that 9pm would be a fair compromise.
Tánaiste Leo Varadkar tweeted to say everyone is feeling anger, frustration, dismay and depression but that cannot deflect them from making the right decisions to keep people safe.
Inagh Green Senator Roisin Garvey believes cabinet ministers face a diffcult decision, saying no-one wants to go back into lockdown.
