The time limit for indoor dining is set to return when the hospitality sector fully reopens.
It’s one of a number of guidelines set to be issued by Failte Ireland.
Update
The Restaurants Association of Ireland @RAI_ie welcome the publication of the @Failte_Ireland later this afternoon
As the Association was not consulted in advance of the publication of the guidelines, we are keen to read the fine print, specially ventilation requirements— Adrian Cummins 🇮🇪🇪🇺 (@adriancummins) May 25, 2021
€9 "Substantial Meal" Scrapped
These new guidelines are expected to state that people can eat or drink for as long as they like outdoors.
However there will be a 1hr 45 minute limit indoors.
Tables will have to be one metre apart both indoor and outdoors.
The €9 substantial meal rule is also set to be scrapped.
Good ventilation is also set to form part of the measures.
Restaurateur Oliver Dunne says it may be cooler in restaurants as a result.
"Well you can wear your coat indoors!"
"It's not an ideal situation but it's better than not having the restaurant open at all."
It's Different This Time Around
Last time restaurants and pubs reopened at Christmas, the number of covid cases spiked.
Michael O’Donovan from the Vintners Federation of Ireland says it’s different this time round.
"Looking out the window here, in Cork City, today."
"It doesn't look too appealing, with the rain lashing down for the moment."
"Hopefully by the time we get to the 7th of June, the weather will improve."
Outdoor dining resumes June 7th while hotels can open June 2nd.
The Government is set to announce on Friday when indoor dining resumes
