Nightclub operators have been left in the dark about what regulations will apply to their venues on Friday.
Government officials will meet with representatives of the hospitality sector on Wednesday afternoon to discuss the confusion that has arisen ahead of reopening on Friday.
On Tuesday, the Cabinet decided to go ahead with the easing of a number of Covid restrictions following public health advice from NPHET – including the reopening of nightclubs and live entertainment.
However, the decision was met with much public confusion as inconsistencies between sectors arose. For example, people who attend nightclubs will be allowed to dance but those who attend pubs can not and will be confined to table service.
On behalf of all venues/promoters/staff/gig and club goers around the country – please give us a real chance at re-opening here. 💔 pic.twitter.com/VBmVssMvAU
— The Academy Dublin (@academydublin) October 19, 2021
A spokesperson for the Minister for Tourism Catherine Martin said the department had been engaging with representatives of the hospitality industry since the decision was announced.
“The key issues are around the anomalies that might arise and we are listening to the sector and working towards [resolving the issues],” they said.
However, those working in the industry remain in the dark about what regulations will apply to the sector and whether they are feasible.
Dave Parle, who works for Hidden Agenda Promotions, spoke on RTE’s Morning Ireland about the uncertainty facing venues as they prepare to reopen over the coming days.
“The phrase about there being some anomalies, by Micheál Martin I think, is probably an understatement,” he said.
“In practicality, there’s a plethora of anomalies at the minute that we’re experiencing. For example, I have a show on Friday week, it’s a live show, 9PM doors and it goes til 3Am, so it’s in a club setting, and I have no idea right now if that’s allowed within the current guidelines.”
Taoiseach Micheál Martin has asked for a “sense of perspective” regarding the debate around the reopening of the country.
Adressing the lack of clarity, he said: “To be honest my main concern is to protect public health and to protect people’s safety and lives, and we need to get a sense of perspective in the debate.”
