Pub owners and regulars have had a mixed reaction to the news that bars and restaurants will have an 11pm curfew.
The Northern Ireland Executive imposed the closing time yesterday in an effort to curb the spread of Covid-19, following a rise of positive cases in the country.
The announcement has been condemned by some bar owners, who feel that the curfew will have an adverse effect on their businesses. They have also expressed concern that the closing time could result in large numbers of people pouring out onto the streets.
However, others have welcomed the move, saying that they have already started closing early.
Joe Killen, the owner of Cassidy's Bar on Antrim Road, said that his business has already implemented an earlier closing time last week, so was prepared for the introduction of the curfew.
He said: "Last week we took the decision ourselves to close earlier, so this will be no change for us. When the wet bars reopened last week, we decided that we would call last orders in the bar at 10pm, so that everyone is able to be out of the premises by 11pm.
"We felt that calling last orders at 10.30pm could create a bit too much of a rush at the end of the night, so we wanted to give our customers a bit more time to wind-up.
"I am not sure if this will lead to an increase in house parties and gatherings, people are going to do what they are going to do."
Tommy and Hugh, who were enjoying a pint in their local, The Morning Star, said that they only come out for a few pints, so the curfew won't really effect them, but could understand how "younger ones" would be upset by it.
They said: "I think for younger people they may have to start heading out early after work at 6pm.
"It won't be a problem for us, a couple of drinks and that is us. The late night thing won't affect us personally."
However not all pubs have welcomed the news, with the Limelight and Ulster Sports Club both releasing statements condemning the decision and calling for it to be reviewed.
Alan Simms, the owner of the Limelight called on the Executive to provide scientific evidence supporting the 11pm closing time. He also said that it would have an "immeasurable effect" on jobs and businesses.
The Ulster Sports Club released a statement online saying: "When we reopened in July, we did so on an extremely limited basis. Our numbers were slashed, strict guidelines were issued, a requirement to serve food was introduced… we adhered to every single one of these requirements.
"We played ball with Government, even when many of their demands seemed nonsensical.
"Today’s announcement is a step into the beyond. I can’t for the life of me work out their motivation behind it other than it being Policy Bingo.
"This measure has nothing to do with helping to curb the spread of Coronavirus and everything to do with a political need for Government to be seen to be doing 'something'.
"Well that 'something' is putting the livelihoods of millions of people at even greater risk. An industry that was sent back out to work with hands tied behind the back has now had its shoelaces tied together as well."
