A range of new COVID-19 restrictions come into force from today.
There were queues of people outside nightclubs in Dublin last night as people tried to get in a last dance before the new restrictions were implemented.
From today, nightclubs are no longer permitted to open and bars and restaurants must close their doors by midnight each night.
Pubs and restaurants are allowed to seat a maximum of six people per table, with table service only. Strict social distancing must also be observed by customers.
People are not permitted to book multiple tables or mingle between tables.
Masks must be worn when not seated
All indoor entertainment, cultural, community and sporting events must be run at 50% capacity and be fully seated.
No more than four households – including the host – should gather in private homes over the coming weeks.
The restrictions recognise that some flexibility will be needed over Christmas.
Meanwhile, people now need a COVID cert to enter gyms, leisure centres, cinemas and theatres.
COVID pass
Gym owner Ger Conroy told Newstalk he doesn't think the requirement was necessary.
“If you look at the reports, very few cases have been reported from gyms since the start of the is pandemic,” he said.
“I don’t think it is necessary but unfortunately we don’t have an option here. It is the law and it is just something that I have to do, unfortunately.”
Gyms
He said the majority of his members are vaccinated.
“Obviously there are some members who aren’t vaccinated; they are not too happy about it,” he said.
“I always put the staff and the members first. I have since the very first day. This is just what I have to do now because the only option I have is to bring this in and follow the law or they are going to fine me and close us down.”
Supports
Cabinet is meeting at Dublin Castle this morning to discuss the impact of the new restrictions on the economy.
Government officials are working a new support scheme for the entertainment sector; however, it is not expected to be finalised at this morning’s meeting.
