Irish pubs: 'Brilliant' idea as to how Ireland's bars could open early during lockdown exit
The idea was floated by the boss of The Bridge 1859 and Lemon & Duke in Dublin
By
Paul Moore. 14:44, 8 MAR 2021
With Level 5 restrictions set to extend beyond April 5, thousands of publicans, restauranteurs, and staff members will be hoping that they'll be able to return to work. Aside from this, the public has been unable to set foot inside a pub since Christmas Eve due to the rising number of Covid cases.
At present, all wet pubs are closed while bars, cafes and restaurants (including hotel restaurants and bars) can only provide take away food and delivery. With 500,000 vaccines now administered and an emphasis being placed on inoculating those who are most at risk with underlying health conditions - a campaign that started this week - some optimism has returned on the issue of reopening sectors of society.
In a message that was posted on his social media account, Noel Anderson, managing director of Dublin establishments The Bridge 1859 and Lemon & Duke shared an idea about a new type of seating arrangement for Irish pubs that could protect the elderly and allow more outdoor space for other customers.
"Final thought for the week. If hospitality is to start outdoors, wouldn’t it be great if the inside was used for the vaccinated elderly? It would give them all a welcome change and also help the business survive and rebuild. A win-win."
Mr Anderson is also chair of the Licensed Vintners Association (LVA) but he did stress that this idea is very much his own.
Fianna Fáil Senator Ollie Crow remarked on the idea and said: "Brilliant idea from the chair of the LVA, working together we will make it happen."
Mr Anderson added: "Some reaction to this. I would think by the time outside is a runner, the over 55s would be well vaccinated by then and also, why wouldn’t we include front line workers also? Starting point?"
Later on, he commented: "It would seem to make sense. It would be great if you could raise inside and get a bit of traction going. We just need to think differently and positively to move forward."
During the conversation, one social media user raised an accurate point by saying: "Vaccinated doesn’t mean not transmitting still? I love the idea but staff would be at risk if not vaccinated and vaccinated people coming inside, they could be carriers still?"