Pubs will not be allowed to reopen next week, in what is yet another major blow to publicans across Galway and the rest of the country.
Pubs which do not serve food were due to reopen next Monday, 10 August, after the reopening was postponed in July.
But following advice from the NPHET today, the government has decided to continue with an ultra-cautious approach and put off Phase 4 once again – until September at least.
This means all pubs, bars, hotel bars, night clubs and casinos will remain closed.
When questioned during the breifing, the Taoiseach Micheal Martin said he had no proof that the virus was being spread in the pubs that were reopened in June.
Responding to a question about why pubs cannot open despite house parties happening across the country, the Taoiseach said: “We have given guidance in relation to house parties, we would urge people to curtail the house parties in accordance with the guidance. And it’s vital that that happens.”
The Cabinet also decided not to increase the number of people who can attend indoor events such as weddings beyond the current limit of 50.
The number of people who can attend outdoor gatherings will not be increased and face coverings will be mandatory in shops and shopping centres from 10 August.
Forty-five cases of COVID-19 were reported today, however a significant number of these relate to an outbreak among employees of the Kildare Chilling Company.
Speaking today before the Cabinet meeting, Tanaiste Leo Varadkar said: “Relative to other European countries we are still doing quite well, we want to keep it that way and we want to make sure we do nothing that jeopardises the opening of schools and colleges in the next couple of weeks.”
