All pubs and nightclubs in Temple Bar are to close with immediate effect in a bid to halt the spread of coronavirus.
The decision was announced by The Temple Bar Company this afternoon.
The announcement comes after a huge public outcry following the emergence of footage of massive crowds in pubs in the area, in contravention of Government guidelines on social distancing.
The statement in full reads: "In the interest of public health and following advice from An Garda Siochana and the health authorities The Temple Bar Company and its members have today decided that all pubs and nightclubs in Temple Bar will close their premises voluntarily with immediate effect. And will do so until further advice by the relevant authorities.
"This decision was taken in light of the experiences of members of The Temple Bar Company over the last few days when it proved impossible to follow the public health advice to limit numbers and adequately implement measures on to control social distancing.
"Members of The Temple Bar Company felt it was inappropriate to request the diversion of Garda resources away from more pressing needs.
"As part of the effort to avoid the spread of the Covid-19 virus The Temple Bar Company will intensify its disinfecting and power-washing of the streets and public spaces in the Temple Bar area as required.
"According to CEO Martin Harte of the Temple Bar Company Temple Bar is a hugely busy popular area with an annual footfall of just over 22 million. And therefore, this decision was the correct one given the unprecedented circumstances."
