Irish pubs could be allowed to stay open later and table size limits may be lifted next month, it has been reported.
As the overwhelming majority of the adult population looks set to receive to be fully vaccinated in the coming weeks government leaders are preparing for a further easing of Covid-19 restrictions.
And the hospitality industry will move closer to a return to normal as pubs, bars and restaurants could be allowed to stay open beyond 11.30pm and a limit on the number of people who can sit at each table may be scrapped, the Irish Independent reports.
Any changes look set to come into force by mid-September when virtually all adults who want a vaccine will have received one.
It comes after earlier this week Failte Ireland released new guidelines for the hospitality and live music industries in response to recent pleas from representatives for both.
The new rules mark a slight easing of strict measures put in place to cope with the Covid-19 pandemic in Ireland, and as the situation improves officials are making moves towards normal living.
While cases remain high on a daily basis, hospitalisations are on a decline as the vaccination programme has ensured more than 70% of the population is now fully protected against death and hospitalisation from the virus.
The updated guidelines mark a major boost for the industry, as all most events have been subject to cancellations since March of last year.
So ahead of the further easing, here are all the changes coming into play according to Failte Ireland:
Events
Under the new guidelines from Failte Ireland, up to 200 people can attend organised outdoor events and gatherings.
The recommendations now state: “Overall capacity will depend on the size of the outdoor event area where customers will be seated.
“The current capacity in August 2021 is a maximum of 200.”
Live music
Live music and performances are permitted in outdoor hospitality settings, as long as the set up adheres to all relevant COVID-19 guidance.
As part of that, the performance area must be a minimum of 2 metres from all customers.
The guidelines also specified that "no live/loud music or performances are permitted indoors", and dancing is still not allowed.
Multiple tables
Customers will now be able to book multiple tables in an outdoor area, however, once they are seated, “intermingling” will not be permitted between these tables.
The rule remains that the numbers at tables are limited to a maximum of six people, aged 13 or over - and the total combined capacity of a table cannot exceed 15 overall.
Closing time
Every premises will have to shut their doors to all customers by 11:30 pm under the new guidelines - marking a 30-minute extension on the previously existing rules.
Face coverings
Face coverings will still be mandatory in all venues on entry and when people are away from their assigned tables.
Although the new guidelines covering events in Ireland have been published, they do not apply to weddings, and so a cap of 100 guests remains in place for all wedding ceremonies and receptions.
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