Dublin pubs updated as 14 bars in the capital have been permanently closed due to the impact of the pandemic

At least 14 pubs have been closed for good in Dublin due to Covid-19 restrictions, according to the licensed Vintners Association.

Nine percent of authorized buildings in Dublin remain closed pending the full easing of restrictions on October 22.

Not allowing trading after 11:30pm means that nightclubs and late bars cannot operate at all until this date.

The LVA said the impact of the pandemic on the hospitality sector will not be known until restrictions are fully relaxed.

CEO Donal O’Keeffe said some will never open their doors.

« I think October 22 becomes the magic date to see who will stay permanently closed and who will reopen, but there is no doubt that nationwide, including in Dublin, there are pubs that are not going to reopen, » he told Newstalk.

“We are aware of 14 pubs that are now gone forever, and there is no doubt that there are many more across the country.

« But we simply won’t know until November, until all restrictions are removed and trade can fully reopen. »

The outdoor business was thriving but the pub experience was still a long way from the norm.

« We initially opened our doors outdoors on June 7, and that was a great success, » continued Mr. O’Keefe.

“Working outdoors has been great and this was a good way to start over in the trade.

“Then we opened our doors indoors, finally, 496 days later on July 26.

“We are happy to be open, we are still dealing with very significant public health restrictions for bars.

“The pub experience is still very far from normal, but we have an end of October date when these restrictions will be removed.

« And then we can go back to making a full recovery and rebuild our business, get our jobs back and move on. »

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