Some Irish pubs could reopen next week as Taoiseach Micheal Martin's Christmas plans are starting to emerge.
The Government is currently meeting to decide on our next step when the Level Five lockdown ends on December 1.
A decision is expected on Thursday or Friday after NPHET makes its final recommendations later today.
And one of the biggest and most controversial decisions will be whether to allow the hospitality industry to open back up.
It is understood that restaurants and gastropubs will be “in the green zone” to reopen next Wednesday if Covid rates fall to below 200 from tonight.
There is growing optimism that restaurants and pubs that serve food could be allowed to open their doors but they're are certain conditions.
If the Government is satisfied the rapid downward trajectory is sustained, there is growing confidence that it could give restaurants and food-serving pubs the nod to reopen next week.
Case numbers have been steadily falling all week, from 318 on Sunday, to 250 on Monday and 226 last night.
This is piling the pressure onto the Taoiseach to reopen as much of society as possible, with the push on from retail and hospitality for early lockdown exits.
A three phase ‘safe’ plan would see most retail reopen next week, limited hospitality back in business a week or two later and finally inter-county travel allowed a week before Christmas.
The push is on now to go beyond this and reopen restaurants and gastropubs early next week.
Sources in the talks between the Government and business last night said that another fall in numbers tonight would add to the momentum for NPHET to give some leeway.
And if it can get below 200 this would give the Taoiseach even more food for thought.
A senior source told Dublin Live last night: “We’re inching towards a reopening from next Wednesday.
“The numbers tomorrow night will be crucial.
“If they’re down to 199, then we’re absolutely in the green zone.”
