Covid-19 Calls Time On Pubs

Coronavirus Crisis: It’s Last Orders For Irish Hotspots

- Ciara Phelan

More than 50,000 bar staff are out of work after the Government called time on 7,000 pubs across the country in a drastic escalation of Ireland’s war on coronavirus.

The development came as a savage hammer blow to publicans as industry bosses predicted some may never re-open after March 29.

Many bars decided to close even before the Government announced last night’s two-week shutdown – admitting “social distancing” and the 100-person limit on indoor gatherings was simply not working.

The dramatic move was sparked by videos showing “reckless” Saturday night revellers in packed Dublin bars openly mocking the advice of health chiefs.

Speaking at the Department of Health yesterday Licensed Vintners’ Association chief Donall O’Keeffe said it was a “traumatic day” for publicans nationwide.

The groups met with health and State officials after pleading with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to enforce the closure of all pubs and bars – including hotel bars – but not restaurants and cafes.

Mr O’Keeffe said: “Fifty thousand jobs are gone overnight. Our first thoughts go to our staff who are going to be in shock I think with this announcement. There’s pubs that will close tonight that will never open again. It’s absolutely the right thing to do.” Health Minister Simon Harris also pleaded with the public not to attend Paddy’s Day house parties and said people need to show “cop-on and decency”.

He added: “This is a very serious virus which has taken the lives of thousands across the globe and sadly two people here.