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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Sam Roberts

Ireland's 'wet pubs' reopening: All the things you can and can't do in pubs after September 21

Ireland's pubs will finally reopen on September 21 - but it will be nothing like it used to be.

For many bars it will be the first time in six months that they have been allowed to open their doors.

Last week a 25-page masterplan was sent to publicans with proposals about how they will be allowed to operate.

While it is not set in stone yet, it gives us a very strong indication of what we can expect when the rules are finalised.

Here is everything you need to know about what is expected to be allowed when the pubs reopen:

No requirement for substantial €9 meal

A substantial meal will no longer be a requirement as so-called "wet pubs", which don't serve food, are allowed to reopen.

105-minute limit set to be scrapped - in certain circumstances

The proposed new rules say that a limit of 105 minutes at a pub is not necessary if physical distancing of two metres is “strictly maintained” between tables.

No more than six people from three households allowed at one table

Under the draft guidelines, no more than six people will be allowed at one table, and they must not come from more than three different households. This applies to both pre-booked tables and walk-in customers.

Brogans Pub on Dame Street during the Coronavirus Covid 19 pandemic in Dublin's city centre. (Gareth Chaney/Collins)

One-metre distancing between people from different households

People sitting at the same table are asked to keep a one-metre distance where possible, unless they are from the same household.

Table service only

Sitting at the bar will be a thing of the past, for the time being at least, as it will be table service only and no ordering at the bar is allowed.

No customers allowed past 11.30pm

Closing time will now be 11.30pm as no customers will be permitted to remain on the premises past this time.

Publican Hugh Hourican with a pint of Guinness & a receipt at The Boar's Head Pub on Capel Street, Dublin. (Gareth Chaney/Collins)

Face coverings to be worn by employees

All employees working in a customer-facing role will be asked to wear face coverings.

Cash will be discouraged

The use of cash will be discouraged, with customers asked to use card payments where possible.

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