PRESS RELEASE 18.09.2020:

Urging the government not to impose any further restrictions on restaurants and bars serving food, newly appointed Chair of the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland, Liam Reid said:

“We urge the government not to impose any further restrictions on restaurants and pubs serving food as these would have grave implications for the future viability of the drinks and hospitality industry.

“Irish bars and pubs have already endured the longest lockdown in the EU, and those in Dublin have no certainty or firm guidance on why any further restrictions would be imposed on them.

“While public health is, and must continue to be, the priority, it is important that any decisions are backed up by evidence – in the case of the proposed closure of all indoor spaces in bars and restaurants, and the ongoing closure of wet pubs. There is no evidence brought forward to suggest that this will work, and indeed governments and public health experts across Europe have avoided implementing such measures.

“If any further restrictions were to be implemented these would have considerable consequences and would exasperate the gravity of the crisis that the hospitality sector is already facing. Further business closures and limitations would mean thousands of jobs will be lost in an industry that is partially open and has taken every measure possible to ensure public health and safety is protected.

“There is mounting evidence that the long-term risk is enormous, and a specific package of support measures is urgently required, regardless of decisions taken today.”