Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 June 2020
652. Deputy Imelda Munster asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the guidelines for pubs and restaurants relating to Covid-19 social distancing measures include outside spaces which may be used for seating. [12913/20]
View answerFáilte Ireland’s detailed sector specific guidelines are designed to assist tourism and hospitality businesses reopen and operate in line with the Return to Work Safely protocol and based on the latest health advice. The suite of guidelines comprises nine documents in total – a general overview document plus more detailed guidelines for each of eight sectoral strands (including one for restaurants and cafés; and another for pubs). All the guidelines are available on the Fáilte Ireland website.
The comprehensive operational guidelines cover a range of important matters, such as putting together a business response and action plan; employee and customer health; employee responsibilities; physical distancing; cleaning products and protocols; technical and maintenance services; front and back of house; and the kitchen area; as well as guidelines for suppliers of goods and services.
Fáilte Ireland’s guidelines for tourism businesses do not, however, address issues around the use of outdoor areas for the provision of seating. In the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic, I believe such matters are likely taken into consideration by local authorities when considering street furniture licences and appeals in line with the relevant provisions of planning legislation and relevant public health and health and safety advice. This is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government.
