Vintners welcome extension of closing hours

THE Licensed Vintners Association (LVA) has welcomed the fact that the Government has extended the closing time of pubs that serve food to 11.30pm.

“We had engaged with the Táiniste and his officials on this issue and acknowledge that Government has addressed our concerns in this regard,” they said in a statement.

The updated guidance for pubs that serve food and restaurants arising from the Government announcement includes the following advice:

Restaurants and cafes (including pubs that serve food and hotel restaurants)

* should close by 11.30pm

* all customer facing staff to wear face coverings

* all customers to wear face coverings until seated and again on departure

* they are required to keep contact details to support contact tracing

* all customers to be seated at a table, with no seating allowed at the bar and table service only

* maximum of 6 seated at a table

* no formal or informal events or parties should be organised in these premises

* all tables must have hand sanitiser

“As always, we urge all our members that are open to follow the public health guidelines at all times,” the LVA adds.

“We have no doubt that Garda inspections will continue, that Garda enforcement powers will be strengthened, and that customers, via their phones, are also highlighting whether businesses comply with the guidelines.”