Limerick residents have been hit with a major blow as the owner of a well-known pub has announced it will not re-open after lockdown.
O'Dwyer's on Wolfe Tone Street in the city centre has ceased trading.
Its owner Anthony O'Dwyer said that the decision was made as a result of tough trading conditions.
Established in 1912, O’Dwyers bar was a treasure trove of bygone times. It had been brought into the 21st Century with a major refurbishment.
O’Dwyer was unaware of the connection between ‘Dan Reddan’ the previous owner when he removed the modern face of the building and discovered the hand carved sign of ‘Dan Reddan’ underneath. His grandson Eoin Reddan played rugby with Anthony in their local club – Old Crescent RFC.
Local councillor Daniel Butler said: "I am very saddened to hear about the closure of Dan Reddans (O'Dwyers) on Wolfe Tone street. A much respected local business. A difficult decision for the owners and sad one for staff."
The news comes after Leo Varadkar had suggested that new indoor dining rules could come into force during the summer.
The Tanaiste was speaking after Failte Ireland published a list of guidelines for both indoor and outdoor dining on Wednesday.
The new rules include a ban on live music, a 105-minute limit and an 11.30pm curfew.
Under the measures it will be a maximum six people aged 13 or over per table - but this limit of six does not include accompanying children aged 12 or younger.
The total combined capacity at a table cannot exceed 15 overall (max. six persons aged 13 and over) for both indoor and outdoor dining.
But if a premises chooses to have two metres social distance, they don’t have to have a 105-minute limit indoors.
