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05th Aug 2021

Guidelines on outdoor events to be updated following Zappone criticism

Sarah McKenna Barry

Some clarity is expected later today.

Guidelines relating to outdoor events are expected to be updated today as representatives from Fáilte Ireland will meet with Government officials.

The meeting comes after it emerged that Katherine Zappone hosted an outdoor event with 50 others at the Merrion Hotel in Dublin.

The gathering occurred just days before she was appointed as the UN Special Envoy on Freedom of Opinion and Expression.

Government members have said the regulations had permitted outdoor gatherings of up to 200 people.

A statement from the Government Press Office shared yesterday read: “The Government has been advised by the Attorney General that regulations provide for organised outdoor events and gatherings up to 200 people, including social, recreational, exercise, cultural, entertainment or community events.

“Further updates will be made to the guidelines to ensure people have clarity about how organised outdoor events may operate.”

Fáilte Ireland has said that it intends to seek clarity over these regulations.

A spokesperson for the group said: “We note the Government statement and guidelines will be updated to provide clarity on the operation of outdoor events. Fáilte Ireland will now engage intensively with government departments and officials on updating the guidelines.”

The organisation has drafted guidelines that correspond with Government departments and industry to reflect the latest public health advice, as well as current restrictions.

Adrian Cummins of the Restaurants Association of Ireland has welcomed the news of updated guidelines, but added that clarity is now needed.

Mr Cummins said: “We’re looking for clarity and communication and what exactly you can do outdoors for 200 people.”