Ireland closes nightclubs and tightens Covid-19 restrictions

Picture Courtesy: Press Association

Irish Prime Minister, Micheál Martin announced several new restrictions in a televised address on Friday night. This comes after the government is trying to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

The new rules are put in place starting December 7th and until January 9th. Indoor events such as concerts and sports fixtures must operate at 50% capacity and private home visits must involve no more than four households.

The chief medical officer and the National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET) discussed the current situation with the cabinet on Friday post which the government took this action. The Prime Minister said the "risks associated with proceeding into the Christmas period without some restrictions to reduce the volume of personal contacts is just too high”.

Other rules which go into effect are similar to what was put in place before October 22nd. Some of them are, customers cannot queue at a bar for drinks, the social distancing of 1m between the tables, maximum of six adults can sit together at a table, a ban on multiple table bookings, and masks be worn when not at the table.

The PM also said that a pass would also now be required for gyms and leisure centers as well as hotel bars and restaurants. For entertainment, cultural and sporting events, attendance numbers will be reduced to 50% capacity and the venues must be fully seated.