Gathering to drink in parks is “appalling,” says Minister for Finance

Pascal has had his say.

Pascal Donohoe has said that it is "appalling" that people are gathering to meet up and drink in parks and on canals. The Minister for Finance warned against the outdoor activity this morning, saying that gathering in large groups is unacceptable and will curb progress made by Level 5 restrictions as well as the vaccine rollout. “They’re appalling scenes, and it’s exactly the risk of that kind of behaviour that runs the risk of unravelling the progress that we are making,” he told Newstalk today. “[It runs the risk of] making it even more difficult to get to a better place for our country in the coming weeks and months.” The minister's comments come as videos began circulating social media depicting people gathering along Dublin's Grand Canal, St Stephen's Green, and elsewhere. The beginning of this week saw particularly good weather across Leinster, with some areas of the country experiencing highs of 18 degrees. Taoiseach Micheál Martin announced yesterday that from April 12, people will be permitted to travel within their county. He also indicated that as the vaccine rollout ramps up, Ireland's economy should be in a position to reopen from May. Hairdressers and other businesses have welcomed the news of a potential reopening of their industry, but they are still seeking greater clarity from the government regarding exact dates and protocols.