The Tánaiste says he can’t provide clarity on whether July’s reopening is going ahead because of the Delta variant of Covid 19.
Restaurant and pub owners have been venting their frustration at the mixed messages coming from Government.
Tánaiste Apologises "If It's Confusing"
As it stands indoor dining, larger weddings and international travel are all set to resume next month.
But concern has been mounting over the more transmissible Delta variant.
Yesterday Ministers seemed cautious but positive that July’s reopening could still go ahead.
But fast forward 24 hours and that’s changed.
The Taoiseach’s admitted the reopening may be delayed and the Tánaiste says while it still remains on track for now, it could change.
Confusing yes but Leo Varadkar says it’s the nature of Covid.
"I'm sorry if it is confusing but that is the position."
"The position has always been, and I think people understand this, that we give an indicative date."
"But that's never confirmed until the week before and can't be until we know the updated epidemiological situation and have the advice from NPHET."
"I appreciate how annoying and frustrating this is for people."
Publicans "Pulling Our Hair Out"
Noel Anderson from the Licenced Vintners Association is one of those who is annoyed and frustrated.
"Our member have been closed for almost 16 months."
"They're literally pulling our hair out over the mixed messages."
"We need to know ASAP whether we're opening or not."
A final decision will be made next Thursday – those in the hospitality trade say that’s too late.
