Businesses reopen under phase 3 of the roadmap to ease restrictions to protect people from Covid-19.
Another step on the road back to normality is marked with phase three of the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions, which sees the reopening of most businesses. The hardest hit sectors, including hospitality and hairdressing, are allowed to reopen for the first time in over three months. However, they must continue to observe strict public health measures, including social distancing and wearing protective equipment in certain circumstances.
The Market Bar and Restaurant on Fade Street in Dublin has reconfigured its interior to comply with the phase 3 restrictions. The once open plan layout has been replaced by individual booths to keep diners social distancing at least one metre apart. Staff members wethe ar face shields. Despite the Market Bar running at half its capacity, owner Niall McFadden is relieved to be trading again.
We lose more money when we're shut than when we're open.
Customers are willing to comply with the restrictions just to be able to dine out again,
It's been a long few months stuck at home, homeschooling, and cooking dinners every night.
At the Ósta Café in Sligo, owner Bríd Torrades has new systems in place. A customer feels these measures are appropriate.
I feel safe and secure if you're sensible.
Hotel Minella in Clonmel has gone to great lengths to prepare for reopening, including new equipment, extra procedures, and staff training. The hotel's co-owner Elizabeth Nallen-Bowen is delighted to see an influx of staycation bookings.
An elderly man who is out for the first time in three months is delighted with the easing of restrictions,
It's absolutely wonderful to be out.
While businesses are also happy with the relaxation of restrictions, they know a long road to recovery lies ahead.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 29 June 2020. The reporter is Will Goodbody.
