VIDEO: 'I don't know how I'm going to give hours to people..it makes for a crappy Christmas'

'Disgusting, devastating and appalling' were just some of the words used by local publicans reacting to news that the Cabinet has agreed to implement an 8pm closing time for hospitality and live events, as well as other indoor venues such as cinemas and theatres, to curb the spread of Covid-19 over the Christmas period.

Under the measures, which come into force from midnight on Sunday until the end of January, all restaurants and bars excluding takeaways or delivery services, must close at 8pm and there should be no indoor events after this time.

This was the reaction of local publicans Damien Clarke of P Clarkes and Niall Brennan of Henry Loughran's, both in Navan who watched the Taoiseach's address to the nation this evening.

Measures will into effect from 20 December (midnight on Sunday night)

All restaurants and bars, excluding takeaways or delivery services, must close at 8pm

there should be no indoor events after 8pm

for indoor events scheduled earlier in the day, attendance should be limited to 50% of venue capacity or 1,000 people, whichever is lower

attendance at all outdoor events should be limited to 50% of venue capacity or 5,000 people, whichever is lower

wedding receptions can take place after 8pm but with a capacity limit of 100 guests

restricted movement advice for all close contacts will be enhanced. For those who have received a booster at least one week ago, they will have to restrict movement for 5 days and take 3 antigen tests

for those that have not yet received a booster, they must restrict their movement for ten days. The HSE will consider the best testing regime for people in this category

International Travel

As regards international travel:

all persons arriving into the State from overseas will continue to be required to have an antigen or PCR tests in line with their vaccination/recovery or unvaccinated status.

all passengers arriving in Ireland are now advised to conduct antigen testing on a daily basis for a period of 5 consecutive days commencing on day of arrival.

Restrictions specific to scheduled states where an “emergency brake” has been applied will be adjusted in line with the overall EU approach.