The hospitality sector is still waiting for clarity this lunchtime on the guidelines it will need to abide by when it reopens for indoor dining on Monday.
It comes as a West Clare publican is warning Government supports may be needed to ensure small businesses have adequate ventilation equipment in place.
Meetings have been taking place this morning to finalise official guidelines for the return of indoor dining on Monday.
They’re expected to be published later today, with no time limits set to be enforced, though it will be table service only and guidance on ventilation will be provided.
Paul Moynihan, the president of the Vintners Federation of Ireland, says it’s concerning the guidelines haven’t been published yet, with less than 72 hours to go until indoor dining is operational once more.
It’s believed legal concerns are among the reasons behind the delay in the publication of the guidelines, with the Attorney General sitting in on the meetings with government officials and Failte Ireland.
Tánaiste Leo Varadkar says however that he accepts there will be frustration at the late publication of the guidelines:
A West Clare publican meanwhile insists the State will have to provide supports to smaller businesses who may need to invest in ventilation equipment to safely facilitate indoor dining.
It’s anticipated requirements on air flow and CO2 monitors will be contained in the guidelines when they’re published.
David O Brien of Michael A’s Pub in Miltown Malbay is waiting a few weeks before operating indoors as some of his younger members of staff remain unvaccinated.
He believes rural outlets in particular may need State support to ensure they have adequate resources in place to trade safely.
