From Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media; Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment
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The Tánaiste, Leo Varadkar, and the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin, today welcomed the ongoing reopening of indoor hospitality businesses since the signing into law of the relevant Regulations on Sunday 25 July by the Minister for Health (SI 385 of 2021).
They also reiterated that both the Digital COVID Certificate and the HSE Vaccination Card are acceptable proofs of immunity and they urged businesses and customers alike to fully engage with the guidelines that set out how this reopening can happen safely. These guidelines are available on the Fáilte Ireland website.
Customers are also reminded that, in addition to presenting a proof of immunity, they may also be asked to present a photo ID to show that the proof of immunity relates to them.
The Tánaiste and Minister Martin also welcomed clarification of the guidance on the provision of food counter service for consumption at a table, including self-service, buffet and carvery arrangements, which sets out that, while table service is the safest mode of service, counter service can be permitted where safe queueing and compliance with other key requirements can be implemented. This will also apply to food service outlets in retail settings including food courts.
The Tánaiste said:
"It has been gratifying to see so many businesses reopening in recent days, many for the first time since March 2020. Anecdotally we understand that the new arrangements are working well and we urge both businesses and customers to embrace the new arrangements in a safe manner as we approach the bank holiday weekend."
Minister Martin said:
"Initial feedback indicates that the new arrangements which have facilitated the reopening of indoor hospitality are being positively embraced by businesses, employees and customers alike. Throughout the pandemic, solidarity has been at the core of our response and I know that this spirit will inform how we all embrace the new arrangements in the coming period, ensuring we keep each other safe."
For more information, visit gov.ie/ReopeningHospitality.