Clare restaurant owners have expressed hope that the industry will be able to survive, once the COVID-19 restrictions are eased.
That’s despite the warning of the Restaurants Association of Ireland who say up to 90% of restaurants could close permanently in the next two months, leading to the loss of 120,000 jobs.
It’s looking to the government to prevent a collapse of the industry.
As in other sectors, the restaurant industry has taken a hard hit from the restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 health pandemic.
Most have closed their doors, and now the Restaurants Association of Ireland has claimed most of those won’t re-open, with 90% of restaurants set to shut permanently in the next two months, with 120,000 jobs being lost in the process.
It looks to the government to scrap VAT for 12 months and to write off commercial rates, as part of a series of nine measures which they say are vital for the industry.
Aidan McGrath, owner of the Wild Honey Inn in Lisdoonvarna, says that the traditional dining experience will have to change if restaurants reopen.
And yet, while the dining experience may change, another of the county’s leading restauranteurs is expressing hope that solidarity can help keep restaurants in business.
Owner of Henry’s Bistro and Wine Bar in Ennis, Dermot Fetton, agrees that support measures are needed, including grants.
But he believes that the local market and community will help businesses to survive the coming pressures.
Brian McLoughlin, Clare FM, first for local news.
